I was just sitting at the table drinking espresso and eating baguette and butter. It was so good. I was alone and started thinking about how the French (most of them at least) have kept things sacred. Meals are sacred. It's to be valued. Conversation is valued. Not that these things aren't valued in America, but not how it is here. I started thinking back to when I was a child and spending time and my grandmother and great-grandmother's house. They would wake up early, or sometimes in the middle of the night, and sit at the table and have coffee and cream, with their sugar out of an actual sugar dish using a sugar spoon on their toile saucer and cup. I haven't thought of that ever, until now. It's only been over the last 20 years or so that things have drastically changed in the US. Home cooked meals at the table have been replaced with busy activities and eating fast food in the car.
I moved to France and didn't know how to set a table. That's embarassing. I learned in my home economics class in high school, along with how to make fruit pizza, but that was over ten years ago. I now set the table three times a day. It might seem like a monotonous nuisance, but it's quite pleasant. The formality of dinner time is something that I look forward to. It's something that I hope to carry on with my own family. Not just having plates with silverware, but the whole shebang - placemats, serviettes/cloth napkins, bread basket, wine, entrees, and coffee or tea and dessert following the meal...and nice, French, antique-ish dinnerware to top it off.
Last night I was speaking with Jasmin and our new French friends. We were telling them now the French are actually friendlier than most Americans. One of them said that he went to a bar in NY and was shocked because the men would walk up to the bartender and say "Beer" in a demanding tone; they don't say "Hello, I would like a beer, please." I thought about it and he's right. Anytime Zac and I go to get bread, I let him ask for it and pay. I have taught him that he is supposed to say, "Bonjour Madame, deux tradition, s'il vous plait." (Tradition is the type of baguette that we get). This is very customary in Paris.
Conversation at the dinner table - The adults are very interactive with the children. They ask them many questions and are very aware of their manners. Zacharie is fully capable of carrying on a very intellectual conversation with an adult because at dinner time he is included and expected to partake in it. It might be partially due to the fact that he is extremely bright with the occasional old man tendencies, such as sitting at the dinner table with his legs crossed while drinking milk and reading a book. Also, I might have mentioned it before, but the way the French operate a fork and knife is nothing short of remarkable. I am trying my hardest to master the art of it, but it might take months longer.
These are things that I feel blessed by learning. It's one of the huge perks of actually living with a family. I get to see how the French are on a day to day basis in the home. I'm seeing it all. You can't pay for an experience like this! Where else can you learn French cuisine and culture? There's no class you can take. Maybe that's something I should think of doing when I come home. Hmmm.
Note: There might have been some broad generalizations since I am living with only one family and not the whole of France.
Friday, August 31, 2007
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Espresso and Gzorgzasank
Today was a long day. I had a million errands to run. First, Zac and I were off to Nespresso, the wonderful, amazing, aroma-producing, caffeine lovers paradise. I got two boxes of each flavor - Arpeggio, Roma, Decaffeinato Intenso, Livanto, Capriccio, Volluto, and Cosi. Now, I will be honest with you by saying that I had never had espresso before I moved to France. Zacharie and I got back to the house and I let him unload them all to their place. Before he finished, I was already fixing a long shot. I am taking one of these machines back to the states with me.
I was supposed to do the ooshop list. It's an internet site where the family does the shopping. Something happened to the computer, so I couldn't get it done. Check it out though - www.ooshop.com. It's pretty cool. When Isabelle and Basile went to NYC, they bought the children clothes for the new school year. Mostly from Banana Republic for the older boys, GAP for Zac, and Abercrombie for Verena. I cleaned out Zac's closet today and had him try on his new clothes. This is a tall family so I assumed he would fit in size 7 since he turns 7 in October. I pulled the elastic in the waist as tight as I could and they still swallowed him. Clown pants. I think American children are getting bigger. Little Zacharie doesn't really seem to be too small for his age compared to the other kids.
I had to cook again. Quite a few of you are asking about my meals and what I have cooked. Tonight I had planned to cook Porc au carmen - Caramel Pork. I went to the Boucherie and purchased pork roast. I brought it back, cut it up and grilled it on a skillet with olive oil and garlic. After a few minutes I added some grapefruit juice, brown sugar, maggai sauce, salt, and pepper. I let them cook under a little for about twenty minutes, turning them over occasionally. Rice and green bean almondine accompanied the pork. It smelled great and the kids seemed to like it.
Jasmin texted me to to say that she was meeting up with Monica, a girl we know from Savannah that lives in Brooklyn. She's been in Paris for a couple of months and only has two weeks until she moves back. After I left work, I hopped on the metro to Champs Elysees, then to George V (pronounced with a soft g - gzorgz a sank). The three of us girls were late, so we met up at the metro, then walked together to the restaurant off of Avenue George V. I don't have any idea what the place was called. Five French men were our dinner companions for the night. Arthur, Monica's boyfriend told us that dinner would be interesting since their English isn't so great, but it would be quite entertaining because they always joke with each other if they say the wrong thing. Everyone was so interesting. The main conversation I had with four of them was on travel. Once I told them I had never traveled Europe, their faces lit up and they went on and on about their favorite places. All said Rome was their top pick, but disagreed on Vienna and Barcelona as their second. Soon following, Xavier asked if I had any paper. The napkins were perfect tablets. I now have a great list of travel destinations to choose from!
Here's a pic of the group from the night. Xavier left early and another one was taking the picture. How generous, I know.
Our walk back was great. I thought about the movie French Kiss, with Meg Ryan and Kevin Kline, when she was in the Hotel George V. I loved the concierge. He cracked me up! I kept repeating "Welcome to zee Hotel George a sanq". It's a gorgeous area on Avenue des Champs Elysees. This city is so amazing at night!
I was supposed to do the ooshop list. It's an internet site where the family does the shopping. Something happened to the computer, so I couldn't get it done. Check it out though - www.ooshop.com. It's pretty cool. When Isabelle and Basile went to NYC, they bought the children clothes for the new school year. Mostly from Banana Republic for the older boys, GAP for Zac, and Abercrombie for Verena. I cleaned out Zac's closet today and had him try on his new clothes. This is a tall family so I assumed he would fit in size 7 since he turns 7 in October. I pulled the elastic in the waist as tight as I could and they still swallowed him. Clown pants. I think American children are getting bigger. Little Zacharie doesn't really seem to be too small for his age compared to the other kids.
I had to cook again. Quite a few of you are asking about my meals and what I have cooked. Tonight I had planned to cook Porc au carmen - Caramel Pork. I went to the Boucherie and purchased pork roast. I brought it back, cut it up and grilled it on a skillet with olive oil and garlic. After a few minutes I added some grapefruit juice, brown sugar, maggai sauce, salt, and pepper. I let them cook under a little for about twenty minutes, turning them over occasionally. Rice and green bean almondine accompanied the pork. It smelled great and the kids seemed to like it.
Jasmin texted me to to say that she was meeting up with Monica, a girl we know from Savannah that lives in Brooklyn. She's been in Paris for a couple of months and only has two weeks until she moves back. After I left work, I hopped on the metro to Champs Elysees, then to George V (pronounced with a soft g - gzorgz a sank). The three of us girls were late, so we met up at the metro, then walked together to the restaurant off of Avenue George V. I don't have any idea what the place was called. Five French men were our dinner companions for the night. Arthur, Monica's boyfriend told us that dinner would be interesting since their English isn't so great, but it would be quite entertaining because they always joke with each other if they say the wrong thing. Everyone was so interesting. The main conversation I had with four of them was on travel. Once I told them I had never traveled Europe, their faces lit up and they went on and on about their favorite places. All said Rome was their top pick, but disagreed on Vienna and Barcelona as their second. Soon following, Xavier asked if I had any paper. The napkins were perfect tablets. I now have a great list of travel destinations to choose from!
Here's a pic of the group from the night. Xavier left early and another one was taking the picture. How generous, I know.
Our walk back was great. I thought about the movie French Kiss, with Meg Ryan and Kevin Kline, when she was in the Hotel George V. I loved the concierge. He cracked me up! I kept repeating "Welcome to zee Hotel George a sanq". It's a gorgeous area on Avenue des Champs Elysees. This city is so amazing at night!
Monday, August 27, 2007
Je voudrais ouvrir un compte de cheque, svp.
After much procrastination and bad luck, I put "Go to BNP" on the top of my priority list. BNP Paribas is a big bank here. We happen to have one at the corner of our street, next door to Proxi. Before I left, I made sure to get on to Google Translator. I typed "I would like to open a checking account." I clicked "English to French" and it said "Je voudrais ouvrir un compte de cheque." Perfect. After repeating it appoximately 16 times, which I was told is how many times you have to repeat something before it will go into your long term memory. "Je voudrais ouvrir un compte de cheque." Got it. Off I went. I walked in and greeted the lovely lady with the usual "Bonjour Madame" but added "Parlez-vous anglais?" Her answer was a negative one. No luck. Good thing I repeated "Je voudrais ouvrir un comte de cheque" 16 times. I said it and she said "d'accord". Success! I did it, I did it!
In my mind, I didn't go any further than that moment. I don't know what I was thinking. She asked "blah blah blah Carte de Sejour, blah blah blah, Passeport, blah blah." I took out my carte de sejour and passport. That was easy. She looked them over and typed something on her computer. She continued on with the "blah blah blah" and looked at me questionably, as if I was supposed to respond. Then she pointed to her little desk calendar and very quicly said "Blah blah blah" and kept tapping her pen on the calendar. I thought I kept hearing her say September in French, so I tried to say it, but all I got out was "sept" which sounds like "set". She said, "Ah oui, says ur." I had NO idea what she was talking about, but I said "oui" anyway. She typed something on her computer again, then wrote something on a business card and handed it to me. I looked at it and it said "27/08/2007 @ 16h". Then I realized that I made an appointment with Dominique Papillon at "seize heure" which is at 4:00pm.
The hours went by slow. I received a call from Jacky saying that the children, minus Zac, would be home between 13h and 14h. That would work out perfectly. I could have one of them go to the bank with me to translate. Time ticked by. Basile got home from NYC, then quickly headed out the door to work. Before leaving he said "The children should be back around 4:00". Panic set in. Would they be back in time to go with me to the bank?
I rushed back to my apartment to study a little more French. I was overwhelmed, so I quit. It was 3:45 and I hadn't heard from any of the kids yet. I was on my own. I wasn't dressed too Parisian. If I don't speak French and frustrate them, at least I should look nice, right? I would be an annoying-non-French-speaking-nicely-dressed-person, rather than a lazy-sloppy-dressed-annoying-non-French-speaking-American. I took off the athletic attire and wore a white skirt instead.
Deep breath and a long prayer. I walked in and said bonjour to the same lady. She remembered me. I sat for a good twenty minutes. More prayer. A women walked out of an office and greeted me with a handshake and smile. I felt like I was at home in Texas. Once in her office, I started off with "Je suis tres desole. Je ne parle pas Francais." She said it was okay, since she speaks a little English. Amen.
We go through the long process. I didn't know it could be such a long process to get a checking account. I had paper after paper to sign and "read". You'd think I was closing on a house or something. Mme Dominique was so amazing and nice. She explained everything and even signed me up for a savings account. I don't know if I will ever have a chance to use it, considering my salary, but it's nice to know I have it. I still have to get the family to fill out a form and I have to show them the letter of enrollment from my language school. After that I will get my Carte Bleu. It's hard to get by in Paris without it. Many places don't take regular credit cards or American debit cards. You have to have a "smart card" which has a microchip in it. The day was a success. I was satisfied. The motivation to learn French is definitely renewed. Nose in the books. I left BNP with a big folder full of signed papers and manuals that explain the account, en francais. She said it would be good to read so that I can better my French. We'll see about that.
I came back and cooked. Earlier in the day I checked the freezer to see what meat we had. Two LARGE pieces of meat were in there. I do not know what they are, so I don't know what recipe to look for. I made an executive decision to purchase chicken at the store. I found a good recipe online that doesn't include American ingredients (which is almost impossible to find here at a reasonable price). I couldn't eat any of it. Six more days left on the fast. However, I did take a taste of the sauce and it was so good. I almost had a plate full of "tastes", but I remembered why I was fasting, so I put the spoon in the dishwasher and bid the sauce adieu. I'm glad that's over with, but now I have to do it for Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday.
In my mind, I didn't go any further than that moment. I don't know what I was thinking. She asked "blah blah blah Carte de Sejour, blah blah blah, Passeport, blah blah." I took out my carte de sejour and passport. That was easy. She looked them over and typed something on her computer. She continued on with the "blah blah blah" and looked at me questionably, as if I was supposed to respond. Then she pointed to her little desk calendar and very quicly said "Blah blah blah" and kept tapping her pen on the calendar. I thought I kept hearing her say September in French, so I tried to say it, but all I got out was "sept" which sounds like "set". She said, "Ah oui, says ur." I had NO idea what she was talking about, but I said "oui" anyway. She typed something on her computer again, then wrote something on a business card and handed it to me. I looked at it and it said "27/08/2007 @ 16h". Then I realized that I made an appointment with Dominique Papillon at "seize heure" which is at 4:00pm.
The hours went by slow. I received a call from Jacky saying that the children, minus Zac, would be home between 13h and 14h. That would work out perfectly. I could have one of them go to the bank with me to translate. Time ticked by. Basile got home from NYC, then quickly headed out the door to work. Before leaving he said "The children should be back around 4:00". Panic set in. Would they be back in time to go with me to the bank?
I rushed back to my apartment to study a little more French. I was overwhelmed, so I quit. It was 3:45 and I hadn't heard from any of the kids yet. I was on my own. I wasn't dressed too Parisian. If I don't speak French and frustrate them, at least I should look nice, right? I would be an annoying-non-French-speaking-nicely-dressed-person, rather than a lazy-sloppy-dressed-annoying-non-French-speaking-American. I took off the athletic attire and wore a white skirt instead.
Deep breath and a long prayer. I walked in and said bonjour to the same lady. She remembered me. I sat for a good twenty minutes. More prayer. A women walked out of an office and greeted me with a handshake and smile. I felt like I was at home in Texas. Once in her office, I started off with "Je suis tres desole. Je ne parle pas Francais." She said it was okay, since she speaks a little English. Amen.
We go through the long process. I didn't know it could be such a long process to get a checking account. I had paper after paper to sign and "read". You'd think I was closing on a house or something. Mme Dominique was so amazing and nice. She explained everything and even signed me up for a savings account. I don't know if I will ever have a chance to use it, considering my salary, but it's nice to know I have it. I still have to get the family to fill out a form and I have to show them the letter of enrollment from my language school. After that I will get my Carte Bleu. It's hard to get by in Paris without it. Many places don't take regular credit cards or American debit cards. You have to have a "smart card" which has a microchip in it. The day was a success. I was satisfied. The motivation to learn French is definitely renewed. Nose in the books. I left BNP with a big folder full of signed papers and manuals that explain the account, en francais. She said it would be good to read so that I can better my French. We'll see about that.
I came back and cooked. Earlier in the day I checked the freezer to see what meat we had. Two LARGE pieces of meat were in there. I do not know what they are, so I don't know what recipe to look for. I made an executive decision to purchase chicken at the store. I found a good recipe online that doesn't include American ingredients (which is almost impossible to find here at a reasonable price). I couldn't eat any of it. Six more days left on the fast. However, I did take a taste of the sauce and it was so good. I almost had a plate full of "tastes", but I remembered why I was fasting, so I put the spoon in the dishwasher and bid the sauce adieu. I'm glad that's over with, but now I have to do it for Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday.
Non photo, s'il vous plait!
The day started off low-key. I cleaned up around my 20 square meters studio, listened to some podcasts from Watermark, and read a little bit. Afterwards, I got out to the post office, finally, to get my checking account. I know this sounds strange, but yes, the post office offers simple checking accounts. Just what I need. I went in to the nearest one and looked at their pamphlets. I found one that said "A La Banque Postale" and it talked all about their banking services. I go up to the counter and ask if she speaks English. "A little bit", she said. So I told her I needed to open a checking account. "Not here, you can't do that here at the Post Office." I show her the pamphlet and say, "Then what's this?" She shrugs and shakes her head. I left. Hmmm. You can be refused services anywhere with no explanation. It's just part of the fun of living here. You never know what's going to happen.
Soon after, Celine called to see if I would want to meet up with her and a girl from Australia that was visiting Paris for the first time. It was a gorgeous day, so being outside sounded perfect. I met up with them at Place de la Concorde.
Myms is Australia and attends Hillsong in Sydney. She has been living in London since February and is visiting Paris on her way home. We walked around to some places I haven't been so I took out my camera and started aiming. The first place we came upon was the famous hotel in Paris, Hotel Crillon.
I took one photo then went to take a picture of the entrance. The doorman yelled out "Non! Non photo! Non Non Non!" while waving his arms. WHAT? It's a hotel entrance. I was in shock. We kept walking. Next door was the American Embassy. Home sweet home. The American flag was waving proudly. I wanted to get a picture, because then I could tell you on this blog that I went and then you could see a picture of what it looked like. I wasn't so lucky. I held up my camera, ready to snap, and again received the "Non! Non photo! Non Non Non!" from a policeman outside of the gates. WHAT? It's a building. It's MY embassy. Thoughts of walking up next to the building and the hotel and doing a rapid snap crossed my mind. Now that would be a great blog! Doormen and policemen chasing me around the 8th arrondissement trying to get me to forfeit my pictures. I didn't do that though. We continue on down the street and see all the great stores. Chanel, Valentino, Hermes and then Celine pointed and said "That's where the president lives." We walked down there. On the way I saw another big building with an American flag. I figured I could at least get one pic of my flag since I wasn't so lucky at the embassy. I aimed and snapped. Success. However, immediately following I hear it once again, "Non! Non photo s'il vous plait! Non!" What gives? I kept that picture thought. Directly from me to you, here is my illegal photo.
We continued on our tour. We went to La Madeleine. I will never get over how amazing this place is. We actually went inside. There was a sign outside that said "Remember this is a church. You must be dressed appropriately." I looked at my black tights, athletic shoes, and black tee." I gave Celine a look. She said, "Well you aren't in a bathing suit." Good point. We went in. I didn't even think about taking pictures. If I can't take a picture of the outside of a building, I surely can't take one on the inside of a religious cathedral. Not the case, they allowed it. When I took my first one outside, Myms came up to me and said "Non! Non! Non!" and I honestly thought it was a guard. I was close to screaming.
This look from the steps of La Madeleine down Rue Royale. You can see Place de la Concorde all the way to the Assemblee Nationale.
We walked down Boulevard de la Madeleine and saw the Olympia Music Hall. It is the best in Paris. If you make it there, then it means you are Big Time. It was opened by the same founder of Le Moulin Rouge. If you look, you can see some American bands that will be playing there soon.
Celine's friend, David, called to see if he could meet up with us. He would meet us at Opera. More walking, yay! We had some time to spare so we took our time. We walked to Opera and looked inside, then sat outside and chatted for a bit. After realizing we still had more time, we headed down Rue de la Paix to Place Vendome to check out the sites.
Celine and Myms
Napoleon's statue in Place Vendome
A jewelry store that must have been named after my hometown
We made it back to Opera and met up with David. Another friend of ours, Rebecca, called to say that she was in the Jewish district with two guys that she had met in Israel. They live in London and were visiting for the week, so she was doing the same as us - just giving the Paris tour. We took the metro to meet up with them. It was around dinner time, so once we met up, we found an Israeli falafel restaurant. Celine and I are fasting so we got the citronnade, which is lemonade. It wasn't too shabby, but falafel has never looked so good to me. Agony. Conversation was good. I looked around the table and it is probably the most diverse group I have ever had a meal with. Let's go around the table - Mario from Colombia in med school in London, Patrick from a small town in southern England, David from Martinique that is a surf fanatic, Rebecca from Romania, Celine from Paris, Myms from Australia, and then ole American me. How's that for a melting pot?
After dinner, most of us needed to go our own ways. I had laundry to start and some reading to do, so we figured we would all go to Chatelet to split. Well then Ben called Celine. He had just finished work and wanted to meet up for coffee or wine. We changed our plans, met up with him, and found a cafe on the Seine. So there I was, with Myms, David, Ben, and Celine, just soaking up Paris at dusk. The view from my seat was amazing.
Celine got a coffee. I looked at it and laughed because back in the states we would complain that it's so tiny. That would hardly satisfy. No venti sizes at these little cafes.
Three French (Ben's really Swiss-German, but more French than me) trying to read a Paris map. Classic.
Once we parted ways, Celine and I crossed the Seine. It's my favorite part of the day. The breeze was perfect and the sounds and smells of Paris are so original to the city. The sirens, the conversation, the clingy of silverware from cafes, the bread, cheese, tarts, and coffee.
I had a long walk home. I didn't have my NaviGo charged, so no metro for me. I did not complain. It's my favorite walk and it was the perfect night. I would need to get some change before I could charge my card at Invalide since that's the only place I know that accepts cash rather than a bank card. I am not sure if I've mention it, but many places don't accept my debit or credit card because it doesn't have the "smart card" micro chip on it. I really need to get a checking account. I'll do that tomorrow.
Saint-Michel
Saint Andre des Arts which is a great cafe and market street that leads to the famous markets of Rue de Buci.
I was able to stop at the Monoprix off of Saint-Germain to get change for my 50 euro note by purchasing some trail mix. I kept on walking down Saint-Germain. This street is so French. Great cafes, older women dressed to the nines with little coiffed doggies on leashes, and perfectly trimmed trees that line the street.
At the Solverino metro
A little bit further and I made it to the Invalides metro station to charge the NaviGo. I was close to home and had another on-my-gosh-I-live-in-Paris moment. I still don't think I will ever get accustomed to this view from my street. It's so surreal.
That's what a day in Paris is really like.
Soon after, Celine called to see if I would want to meet up with her and a girl from Australia that was visiting Paris for the first time. It was a gorgeous day, so being outside sounded perfect. I met up with them at Place de la Concorde.
Myms is Australia and attends Hillsong in Sydney. She has been living in London since February and is visiting Paris on her way home. We walked around to some places I haven't been so I took out my camera and started aiming. The first place we came upon was the famous hotel in Paris, Hotel Crillon.
I took one photo then went to take a picture of the entrance. The doorman yelled out "Non! Non photo! Non Non Non!" while waving his arms. WHAT? It's a hotel entrance. I was in shock. We kept walking. Next door was the American Embassy. Home sweet home. The American flag was waving proudly. I wanted to get a picture, because then I could tell you on this blog that I went and then you could see a picture of what it looked like. I wasn't so lucky. I held up my camera, ready to snap, and again received the "Non! Non photo! Non Non Non!" from a policeman outside of the gates. WHAT? It's a building. It's MY embassy. Thoughts of walking up next to the building and the hotel and doing a rapid snap crossed my mind. Now that would be a great blog! Doormen and policemen chasing me around the 8th arrondissement trying to get me to forfeit my pictures. I didn't do that though. We continue on down the street and see all the great stores. Chanel, Valentino, Hermes and then Celine pointed and said "That's where the president lives." We walked down there. On the way I saw another big building with an American flag. I figured I could at least get one pic of my flag since I wasn't so lucky at the embassy. I aimed and snapped. Success. However, immediately following I hear it once again, "Non! Non photo s'il vous plait! Non!" What gives? I kept that picture thought. Directly from me to you, here is my illegal photo.
We continued on our tour. We went to La Madeleine. I will never get over how amazing this place is. We actually went inside. There was a sign outside that said "Remember this is a church. You must be dressed appropriately." I looked at my black tights, athletic shoes, and black tee." I gave Celine a look. She said, "Well you aren't in a bathing suit." Good point. We went in. I didn't even think about taking pictures. If I can't take a picture of the outside of a building, I surely can't take one on the inside of a religious cathedral. Not the case, they allowed it. When I took my first one outside, Myms came up to me and said "Non! Non! Non!" and I honestly thought it was a guard. I was close to screaming.
This look from the steps of La Madeleine down Rue Royale. You can see Place de la Concorde all the way to the Assemblee Nationale.
We walked down Boulevard de la Madeleine and saw the Olympia Music Hall. It is the best in Paris. If you make it there, then it means you are Big Time. It was opened by the same founder of Le Moulin Rouge. If you look, you can see some American bands that will be playing there soon.
Celine's friend, David, called to see if he could meet up with us. He would meet us at Opera. More walking, yay! We had some time to spare so we took our time. We walked to Opera and looked inside, then sat outside and chatted for a bit. After realizing we still had more time, we headed down Rue de la Paix to Place Vendome to check out the sites.
Celine and Myms
Napoleon's statue in Place Vendome
A jewelry store that must have been named after my hometown
We made it back to Opera and met up with David. Another friend of ours, Rebecca, called to say that she was in the Jewish district with two guys that she had met in Israel. They live in London and were visiting for the week, so she was doing the same as us - just giving the Paris tour. We took the metro to meet up with them. It was around dinner time, so once we met up, we found an Israeli falafel restaurant. Celine and I are fasting so we got the citronnade, which is lemonade. It wasn't too shabby, but falafel has never looked so good to me. Agony. Conversation was good. I looked around the table and it is probably the most diverse group I have ever had a meal with. Let's go around the table - Mario from Colombia in med school in London, Patrick from a small town in southern England, David from Martinique that is a surf fanatic, Rebecca from Romania, Celine from Paris, Myms from Australia, and then ole American me. How's that for a melting pot?
After dinner, most of us needed to go our own ways. I had laundry to start and some reading to do, so we figured we would all go to Chatelet to split. Well then Ben called Celine. He had just finished work and wanted to meet up for coffee or wine. We changed our plans, met up with him, and found a cafe on the Seine. So there I was, with Myms, David, Ben, and Celine, just soaking up Paris at dusk. The view from my seat was amazing.
Celine got a coffee. I looked at it and laughed because back in the states we would complain that it's so tiny. That would hardly satisfy. No venti sizes at these little cafes.
Three French (Ben's really Swiss-German, but more French than me) trying to read a Paris map. Classic.
Once we parted ways, Celine and I crossed the Seine. It's my favorite part of the day. The breeze was perfect and the sounds and smells of Paris are so original to the city. The sirens, the conversation, the clingy of silverware from cafes, the bread, cheese, tarts, and coffee.
I had a long walk home. I didn't have my NaviGo charged, so no metro for me. I did not complain. It's my favorite walk and it was the perfect night. I would need to get some change before I could charge my card at Invalide since that's the only place I know that accepts cash rather than a bank card. I am not sure if I've mention it, but many places don't accept my debit or credit card because it doesn't have the "smart card" micro chip on it. I really need to get a checking account. I'll do that tomorrow.
Saint-Michel
Saint Andre des Arts which is a great cafe and market street that leads to the famous markets of Rue de Buci.
I was able to stop at the Monoprix off of Saint-Germain to get change for my 50 euro note by purchasing some trail mix. I kept on walking down Saint-Germain. This street is so French. Great cafes, older women dressed to the nines with little coiffed doggies on leashes, and perfectly trimmed trees that line the street.
At the Solverino metro
A little bit further and I made it to the Invalides metro station to charge the NaviGo. I was close to home and had another on-my-gosh-I-live-in-Paris moment. I still don't think I will ever get accustomed to this view from my street. It's so surreal.
That's what a day in Paris is really like.
Saturday, August 25, 2007
What does Paris look like?
My beautiful French friend, Celine, came over for lunch today. I did my best to make a lovely lunch. It was loaded with veggies and absolutely scrumptious! We relaxed afterwards and watched a movie. It was so sunny and breezy outside, so we made ourselves get out there. The grass in front of Invalides was calling our names.
We walked over, took a seat and drank it up. I looked around and took some pics. Each pic will tell you a little about French culture. Some things you might have thought were stereotypes. I am here to prove they are true.
1) Large majestic buildings are right next door. TRUE
2) Everyone has a dog. TRUE
3) Everyone has a small dog. FALSE. This happens to be the only large dog in all of Paris. Most are scruffy and the oddest breeds you've ever seen.
4) All women wear white pants. TRUE
5) Women wear tight "skinny jeans". TRUE
6) Couples are always cuddling anywhere and everywhere. TRUE. Remember, Paris is the city of Love.
7) People are always napping in the parks. TRUE
I will say that one of my favorite things to do in Paris is find grass and sit on it. I always forget that if I want to read, I don't have to curl up on the sofa. I can go to a park, sit in a nice chair, get a cool breeze that brings in the smells of bread, pastries, cheese, flowers, oh all of it. Nothing beats it. I can't imagine what I would do in a place without parks all around. I am so spoiled here.
All of you from home that know me well. I am going to list out for you the foods that I ate today. You will be so proud. This picky eater has branched out!
raw carrots
cucumber
tomato
green beans
broccoli
steamed carrots
nectarine
cantelope
grapes
onion
garlic
corn cake
We walked over, took a seat and drank it up. I looked around and took some pics. Each pic will tell you a little about French culture. Some things you might have thought were stereotypes. I am here to prove they are true.
1) Large majestic buildings are right next door. TRUE
2) Everyone has a dog. TRUE
3) Everyone has a small dog. FALSE. This happens to be the only large dog in all of Paris. Most are scruffy and the oddest breeds you've ever seen.
4) All women wear white pants. TRUE
5) Women wear tight "skinny jeans". TRUE
6) Couples are always cuddling anywhere and everywhere. TRUE. Remember, Paris is the city of Love.
7) People are always napping in the parks. TRUE
I will say that one of my favorite things to do in Paris is find grass and sit on it. I always forget that if I want to read, I don't have to curl up on the sofa. I can go to a park, sit in a nice chair, get a cool breeze that brings in the smells of bread, pastries, cheese, flowers, oh all of it. Nothing beats it. I can't imagine what I would do in a place without parks all around. I am so spoiled here.
All of you from home that know me well. I am going to list out for you the foods that I ate today. You will be so proud. This picky eater has branched out!
raw carrots
cucumber
tomato
green beans
broccoli
steamed carrots
nectarine
cantelope
grapes
onion
garlic
corn cake
Friday, August 24, 2007
Champs Elysees, finally!
Today was GORGEOUS! I couldn't stay inside, but I didn't know what to do outside. I haven't had the energy to run, so that was out. I had remembered that I hadn't been to the Arc de Triomphe yet. Then I remembered I didn't take Sam and Melissa there last week. Oops, sorry gals.
I've been wanting some more books to read. I get on the metro and everyone is reading. I feel so useless just sitting there. Others are filling their minds and I sit. I might start packing my knitting needles so that I can be productive on the metro. Jasmin told me that there is a huge Virgin Megastore with books, movies, music, all the works. I put on my cargo skirt, Shane Squared tee, Keen's, and a posh new hat. Then I was off to explore more of Paris.
I took the 13 to the Champs Elysees/Clemenceau stop. It's at the Grand Palais and offers a great view of Place du la Concorde and down the tree lined street to the Arc de Triomphe. It was packed. People were everywhere. The French were genius and not subtle when they created cafes with tables and chairs out front, specifically for "people watching". Brilliant. This is the premier shopping district, as well as the entrance to the city. Avenue des Champs Elysees leads directly to the Place de la Concorde, where you can see through Tuileries to the "other" arc, then to the Louvre. It's all lined up.
The Virgin Megastore was beyond what I was wanting to see today. Oh it was like a wonderland. I was looking for the book The Nanny Diaries, but they didn't have it. I have seen three people on flights, in the last couple of months, reading a books by Paulo Coelho. I saw his books and thumbed through them. Deciding to read a new author is a big committment. It's saying "If I like you, I am going to read all of what you have written." I grabbed his first novel The Pilgrimage. I hope it's good.
I walked to the music section. I knew most of the artists, of couse, since most music here in France is very American. However, I bought a cd of a girl that sings for Hillsong Australia. She is from New Zealand and has topped the charts many a times there. She has an amazing voice and writes her own lyrics and music. Her name is Brooke Fraser. The album is solid. Go out and buy it!
I had a leisurely walk back. I love Paris on days like this. Now I understand why people actually go TO the park to take naps.
I've been wanting some more books to read. I get on the metro and everyone is reading. I feel so useless just sitting there. Others are filling their minds and I sit. I might start packing my knitting needles so that I can be productive on the metro. Jasmin told me that there is a huge Virgin Megastore with books, movies, music, all the works. I put on my cargo skirt, Shane Squared tee, Keen's, and a posh new hat. Then I was off to explore more of Paris.
I took the 13 to the Champs Elysees/Clemenceau stop. It's at the Grand Palais and offers a great view of Place du la Concorde and down the tree lined street to the Arc de Triomphe. It was packed. People were everywhere. The French were genius and not subtle when they created cafes with tables and chairs out front, specifically for "people watching". Brilliant. This is the premier shopping district, as well as the entrance to the city. Avenue des Champs Elysees leads directly to the Place de la Concorde, where you can see through Tuileries to the "other" arc, then to the Louvre. It's all lined up.
The Virgin Megastore was beyond what I was wanting to see today. Oh it was like a wonderland. I was looking for the book The Nanny Diaries, but they didn't have it. I have seen three people on flights, in the last couple of months, reading a books by Paulo Coelho. I saw his books and thumbed through them. Deciding to read a new author is a big committment. It's saying "If I like you, I am going to read all of what you have written." I grabbed his first novel The Pilgrimage. I hope it's good.
I walked to the music section. I knew most of the artists, of couse, since most music here in France is very American. However, I bought a cd of a girl that sings for Hillsong Australia. She is from New Zealand and has topped the charts many a times there. She has an amazing voice and writes her own lyrics and music. Her name is Brooke Fraser. The album is solid. Go out and buy it!
I had a leisurely walk back. I love Paris on days like this. Now I understand why people actually go TO the park to take naps.
Get Paris out of Paris, puhlease
I will say that a benefit of leaving the states is that I am not constantly inundated with tabloids and celebrity magazines. It's amazing that I have survived two and a half months without hearing about Lindsay Lohan going to rehab, leaving rehab, and flipping off a camera, or whether Nicole Richie has an eating disorder or not. I guess our lives really don't revolve around theirs.
The kids do love to watch The Simple Life, but it's in French so it doesn't bother me. The translators don't even sound like them. I think I would self-induce sickness if I were to hear Paris Hilton say "That's Hot!" There are tabloids here, don't get me wrong. But you have to actually go to a magazine stand or store to purchase them. They aren't stalking you in line at the stores.
About ten minutes ago, I was brought back to reality. The reality that some celebrities are everywhere, whether you like it or not. My happy world was interrupted with Paris Hilton's music video. Has anyone seen it? Give me a break. Really.
The kids do love to watch The Simple Life, but it's in French so it doesn't bother me. The translators don't even sound like them. I think I would self-induce sickness if I were to hear Paris Hilton say "That's Hot!" There are tabloids here, don't get me wrong. But you have to actually go to a magazine stand or store to purchase them. They aren't stalking you in line at the stores.
About ten minutes ago, I was brought back to reality. The reality that some celebrities are everywhere, whether you like it or not. My happy world was interrupted with Paris Hilton's music video. Has anyone seen it? Give me a break. Really.
Zac's Back!
I woke up this morning at 9:00am. It felt so good. It was a little rainy, but that's just a given in Paris this summer. I haven't minded it. I would rather that than sweaty nights in my flat with no air conditioning or fan. Who wouldn't? I had to go to the grocery store so I could stock the pantry and fridge for the family's return. The time of arrival was unknown, so I decided to assume it was earlier than later, just to play it safe. When returning from Proxi with a full trolly, Marcel, a man doing some work around the house, but quite occupied. That means that he had stuff scattered everywhere. So much for cleaning the place and having it really nice and homey for their return. Arg!
I had to go to Verena's school to get a paper stamped that I probably should have done three and a half weeks ago. They were closed. Then off to Monoprix for some gifts and PAPER. I never have paper. It's one of those things that should always be around, wherever you are. It's like when you are a kid and you assume some fairy brings your toilet paper, rubber bands, pens - because every house has a plethora. You never thought it was your mom that kept all of it fully stocked. So I am realizing with paper. I stocked up. Three little notebooks. Which also brings up another point. I like to be in school. I was the teacher last year, which was fun and all, but I didn't get to look at my own list of school supplies to see what I had to go get for my classes. I have one more month till it's my turn. Oh how I miss the days at OSU in the bookstore with my basket, grabbing my mortar board (which was the highlight of my semester), and books and colored pens to help me organize my thoughts and activities.
After Monoprix I went to this store on Rue Saint Dominic called Joker. It's an everything store. Small, for certain, but they have all sorts of odd things for a fairly cheap price. I bought two decorative boxes to store my stationary, pictures, momentos, etc. Another thing that made it's way into my hands was a kitchen utensil holder that included wooden utensils. Now this thing has a plate attached so that you can set your wooden spoon dirtied with, um let's say, Queso, on it and it won't get your countertop dirty. Now that's innovative. Alright, apologies for taking you down bunny trails.
After all my errands I got a phone call to say the kids were at the flat. Woohooo. I ran in quickly. Zac was sitting on the couch watching television. I stood there for awhile, just waiting for him to look up and scream and run into my arms. That didn't happen. He didn't even look. I said quietly, "Zacharie, my sweet little boy!" Then he looked up and sweetly said my name. He came to give me a hug. I realized that we were going to have to get re-adjusted. It has been almost a month. I wanted to play with him, but he said "Connie, I haven't seen a television in a month. I need to watch it." Hmmm of course I replied with, "You haven't seen me for a month!" He grabbed my neck and kissed my cheek, smiled, then went back to watching his cartoon.
I meant to blog about this earlier, but Zac lost a tooth the night before he left for Greece. There is a story about the French Tooth Fairy that differs from our good ole American version. I will make sure to blog about it the next time a tooth falls out.
I went back to my place for an hour. I came back before the parents had to leave for NYC for a wedding. It was time for me to start cooking dinner for the family again, just the kids tonight. I am currently fasting with some friends from church, so I planned a night of good veggies that I love.
Menu de Connie:
Entree - grated carrots with vinaigrette dressing (I also added a tomato to my plate)
Main dish - Veal with homemade mashed potatoes and green bean almondine.
I have never cooked veal before and I was nervous. I planned to cook it in the oven. When Balthazar walked by I casually asked "Hey what pan do I use for the oven?" He said "You're not going to fry it?" Duh, so I said, "Oh I guess I could do it that way too, if that's what you prefer." Alright alright, I will fry it on a pan. I did it how I thought it was supposed to be done. My fear was that they would come into the kitchen, see what I was doing, and say "What are you DOING?" I did it quick and decided that if something didn't taste right, I would just say "Well that's how we do it in Texas." I am tired of saying that I have never eaten that or that I never knew how to set a table. That's some sort of appalling statement here in France.
Dinner was served and my eyes were watching all of their eyes. Was it good? Do they like it? Do they sense that I am seeking their approval right now? Hmmmm. I managed to get a "Mmmmm" out of Balthazar. Then, like an answer to prayer, sweet Barthelemy looks at me, shakes his head and says, "Connie, this is delicious." The clouds opened up, the choir sang, the light shone down on my face. I have arrived.
I had to go to Verena's school to get a paper stamped that I probably should have done three and a half weeks ago. They were closed. Then off to Monoprix for some gifts and PAPER. I never have paper. It's one of those things that should always be around, wherever you are. It's like when you are a kid and you assume some fairy brings your toilet paper, rubber bands, pens - because every house has a plethora. You never thought it was your mom that kept all of it fully stocked. So I am realizing with paper. I stocked up. Three little notebooks. Which also brings up another point. I like to be in school. I was the teacher last year, which was fun and all, but I didn't get to look at my own list of school supplies to see what I had to go get for my classes. I have one more month till it's my turn. Oh how I miss the days at OSU in the bookstore with my basket, grabbing my mortar board (which was the highlight of my semester), and books and colored pens to help me organize my thoughts and activities.
After Monoprix I went to this store on Rue Saint Dominic called Joker. It's an everything store. Small, for certain, but they have all sorts of odd things for a fairly cheap price. I bought two decorative boxes to store my stationary, pictures, momentos, etc. Another thing that made it's way into my hands was a kitchen utensil holder that included wooden utensils. Now this thing has a plate attached so that you can set your wooden spoon dirtied with, um let's say, Queso, on it and it won't get your countertop dirty. Now that's innovative. Alright, apologies for taking you down bunny trails.
After all my errands I got a phone call to say the kids were at the flat. Woohooo. I ran in quickly. Zac was sitting on the couch watching television. I stood there for awhile, just waiting for him to look up and scream and run into my arms. That didn't happen. He didn't even look. I said quietly, "Zacharie, my sweet little boy!" Then he looked up and sweetly said my name. He came to give me a hug. I realized that we were going to have to get re-adjusted. It has been almost a month. I wanted to play with him, but he said "Connie, I haven't seen a television in a month. I need to watch it." Hmmm of course I replied with, "You haven't seen me for a month!" He grabbed my neck and kissed my cheek, smiled, then went back to watching his cartoon.
I meant to blog about this earlier, but Zac lost a tooth the night before he left for Greece. There is a story about the French Tooth Fairy that differs from our good ole American version. I will make sure to blog about it the next time a tooth falls out.
I went back to my place for an hour. I came back before the parents had to leave for NYC for a wedding. It was time for me to start cooking dinner for the family again, just the kids tonight. I am currently fasting with some friends from church, so I planned a night of good veggies that I love.
Menu de Connie:
Entree - grated carrots with vinaigrette dressing (I also added a tomato to my plate)
Main dish - Veal with homemade mashed potatoes and green bean almondine.
I have never cooked veal before and I was nervous. I planned to cook it in the oven. When Balthazar walked by I casually asked "Hey what pan do I use for the oven?" He said "You're not going to fry it?" Duh, so I said, "Oh I guess I could do it that way too, if that's what you prefer." Alright alright, I will fry it on a pan. I did it how I thought it was supposed to be done. My fear was that they would come into the kitchen, see what I was doing, and say "What are you DOING?" I did it quick and decided that if something didn't taste right, I would just say "Well that's how we do it in Texas." I am tired of saying that I have never eaten that or that I never knew how to set a table. That's some sort of appalling statement here in France.
Dinner was served and my eyes were watching all of their eyes. Was it good? Do they like it? Do they sense that I am seeking their approval right now? Hmmmm. I managed to get a "Mmmmm" out of Balthazar. Then, like an answer to prayer, sweet Barthelemy looks at me, shakes his head and says, "Connie, this is delicious." The clouds opened up, the choir sang, the light shone down on my face. I have arrived.
Sunday, August 19, 2007
Fancy Schmancy for the Summer Ball
We were ready to go this morning. Pepites de Chocolat muffins and capuccinos awaited us at Cafe Columbus. The tour of the Eiffel Tower, Zara, H&M, and souvenir shops in Paris awaited us today. All of this had to be done by 4pm so that we could get ready for the Hillsong Summer Ball and also cook a French dinner. Big day ahead.
The skies were blue and the clouds were white and fluffy. The perfect day in Paris. We left and headed past Invalides and onto Rue Saint Dominic and into Cafe Columbus. Our appetites for chocolate have increased each hour that we've been together. That's friendship if I've ever seen it! Melissa passed on coffee and went for the tepid fresh-squeeze orange juice, but Sammies and I got the coffee, but hers had some fancy whipped cream on it.
We packed up and walked a few blocks to the Eiffel Tower. The crowd was insane. There is no way we would attempt to go up. Instead, we just took our time and snapped a few pics.
This pose was my idea. I am a creative genius, I know.
I happened upon some little yellow flowers and some bees. I like bees. I just read an article that Katy posted about the decreasing bee population and how it effects all of us. It's a serious matter people! Whatever the case, I took some pictures of this busy bee at work.
We passed Ecole Militaire again on our way to Zara and H&M. I couldn't help but get this ole statue in another picture. I need to do more research as to the meaning of it all.
We bought clothes and accessories at Zara and H&M. Scarves were purchased by all. We walked away with full bags and spent hardly any money. There is a pair of shoes that I have been stalking for months now. They are in a store next to GAP and I felt bold enough to go in and buy them. I would have done it months ago but I was too chicken to ask where to get a size 38. I should have, because it was as easy as pie. I got my shoes and was so happy that I had conquered a French shoe store. I have spoken more French with Sammies and Melissa here than any other time.
We hopped on the metro over to Saint Germain des Pres where there is an abundance of souvenir shops. It is also near the markets where you can buy paintings. Sam wanted another painting. We all looked and all liked what we saw. Melissa purchased her fourth painting and Sam bought her third and fourth. Deep pockets, those girls. The souvenir shops had a few things but they weren't really satisfied. We were running out of time, so airport gift shops would have to serve their purpose.
Back on the metro to Sevres-Babylone. This is close to my area. We needed to go to Le Grande Epiceries de Paris to get some veggies and wine for dinner. It's a little fancy shmancy shop next to Le Bon Marche. The girls walked in and paused. They found the chocolates and pastas and candies, which were all delicately wrapped and packaged. You know, the perfect little souvenirs. Only if I thought of that sooner. It would have been much easier to bring them to a glorified grocery store. It's actually in the most Frenchie posh part of Paris. I love this place. We only spent thirty minutes in there before we had to leave or else we would be running late for the rest of the night.
Arms were full and we had a long walk back to my building. We made it and began getting ready for the Summer Ball and preparing dinner. We invited James over as a thank you for his amazing tour to Normandy. I also wanted the girls to taste a bit of a French meal. It wasn't really French, but it was a meal I learned in France. I mean, come on, I'm not a pro yet. Sammies managed to get some pics of the table and entree(which was taken before the wonderful dressing was poured on).
With full tummies, we were ready to go to the Ball! James served as our gracious photographer. It's nice to finally have pics with all three of us together.
We had to take the metro to Champs Elysees-Clemenceau to Louvre Rivoli.
The party was on a boat between Pont du Carrousel and Pont des Arts. We made it down there and hopped on. It was a great time. Lots of dancing, lots of talking. A good time. A few times my heel got stuck in one of the wood slats. At one point I could not get it out. Chuck, an American, came to the rescue. He had to get on his hands and knees to pull the shoe out.
With my American counterpart Jasmin
My French counterpart Anais
My amazing friends Sam and Melissa whom I miss dearly already!
James came with us after the Ball was over. We walked around for a while because we didn't know where we wanted to go. Sam and I wanted a snack because we were getting grumpy. We ended up along the Seine next to the Louvre and overlooked the Pont Neuf, Paris' oldest bridge. We heard some music and realized it was a group of people next to the river doing some old school bucket beating.
We finally managed to find our way to Saint Michel again, our favorite part of Paris.
However, it isn't so favorable at this time of night. We couldn't decided what we wanted to eat, so we left. Thank goodness because the metro was closing down for the night. It was 1:00am before we even got on. I was panicked thinking we wouldn't make it on, but the Lord was on our side, that's for sure. The girls packed their things when we got back. We talked for a bit and I started to get sad because I knew they wouldn't be here much longer. We said our goodbyes for the night and parted ways.
The next morning came oh so fast. We grabbed all the stuff and got on the metro to Montparnasse. The plan was to catch the bus to the airport. We figured this would be easier than taking the RER. After about thirty minutes of drama, we finally found the right bus. I said goodbye and cried more than a handful of tears, then turned and walked away. Wow, it was hard. I walked home, hopped in bed and slept for four hours. I felt better when I woke up.
Girls, THANK YOU for making that my best week in Paris. I have so many memories here and you two are part of them. There are places that I will go that will forever remind me of the times we had here. I hope you two enjoyed yourself and will move somewhere great so that I can come visit you :) I love you two!
The skies were blue and the clouds were white and fluffy. The perfect day in Paris. We left and headed past Invalides and onto Rue Saint Dominic and into Cafe Columbus. Our appetites for chocolate have increased each hour that we've been together. That's friendship if I've ever seen it! Melissa passed on coffee and went for the tepid fresh-squeeze orange juice, but Sammies and I got the coffee, but hers had some fancy whipped cream on it.
We packed up and walked a few blocks to the Eiffel Tower. The crowd was insane. There is no way we would attempt to go up. Instead, we just took our time and snapped a few pics.
This pose was my idea. I am a creative genius, I know.
I happened upon some little yellow flowers and some bees. I like bees. I just read an article that Katy posted about the decreasing bee population and how it effects all of us. It's a serious matter people! Whatever the case, I took some pictures of this busy bee at work.
We passed Ecole Militaire again on our way to Zara and H&M. I couldn't help but get this ole statue in another picture. I need to do more research as to the meaning of it all.
We bought clothes and accessories at Zara and H&M. Scarves were purchased by all. We walked away with full bags and spent hardly any money. There is a pair of shoes that I have been stalking for months now. They are in a store next to GAP and I felt bold enough to go in and buy them. I would have done it months ago but I was too chicken to ask where to get a size 38. I should have, because it was as easy as pie. I got my shoes and was so happy that I had conquered a French shoe store. I have spoken more French with Sammies and Melissa here than any other time.
We hopped on the metro over to Saint Germain des Pres where there is an abundance of souvenir shops. It is also near the markets where you can buy paintings. Sam wanted another painting. We all looked and all liked what we saw. Melissa purchased her fourth painting and Sam bought her third and fourth. Deep pockets, those girls. The souvenir shops had a few things but they weren't really satisfied. We were running out of time, so airport gift shops would have to serve their purpose.
Back on the metro to Sevres-Babylone. This is close to my area. We needed to go to Le Grande Epiceries de Paris to get some veggies and wine for dinner. It's a little fancy shmancy shop next to Le Bon Marche. The girls walked in and paused. They found the chocolates and pastas and candies, which were all delicately wrapped and packaged. You know, the perfect little souvenirs. Only if I thought of that sooner. It would have been much easier to bring them to a glorified grocery store. It's actually in the most Frenchie posh part of Paris. I love this place. We only spent thirty minutes in there before we had to leave or else we would be running late for the rest of the night.
Arms were full and we had a long walk back to my building. We made it and began getting ready for the Summer Ball and preparing dinner. We invited James over as a thank you for his amazing tour to Normandy. I also wanted the girls to taste a bit of a French meal. It wasn't really French, but it was a meal I learned in France. I mean, come on, I'm not a pro yet. Sammies managed to get some pics of the table and entree(which was taken before the wonderful dressing was poured on).
With full tummies, we were ready to go to the Ball! James served as our gracious photographer. It's nice to finally have pics with all three of us together.
We had to take the metro to Champs Elysees-Clemenceau to Louvre Rivoli.
The party was on a boat between Pont du Carrousel and Pont des Arts. We made it down there and hopped on. It was a great time. Lots of dancing, lots of talking. A good time. A few times my heel got stuck in one of the wood slats. At one point I could not get it out. Chuck, an American, came to the rescue. He had to get on his hands and knees to pull the shoe out.
With my American counterpart Jasmin
My French counterpart Anais
My amazing friends Sam and Melissa whom I miss dearly already!
James came with us after the Ball was over. We walked around for a while because we didn't know where we wanted to go. Sam and I wanted a snack because we were getting grumpy. We ended up along the Seine next to the Louvre and overlooked the Pont Neuf, Paris' oldest bridge. We heard some music and realized it was a group of people next to the river doing some old school bucket beating.
We finally managed to find our way to Saint Michel again, our favorite part of Paris.
However, it isn't so favorable at this time of night. We couldn't decided what we wanted to eat, so we left. Thank goodness because the metro was closing down for the night. It was 1:00am before we even got on. I was panicked thinking we wouldn't make it on, but the Lord was on our side, that's for sure. The girls packed their things when we got back. We talked for a bit and I started to get sad because I knew they wouldn't be here much longer. We said our goodbyes for the night and parted ways.
The next morning came oh so fast. We grabbed all the stuff and got on the metro to Montparnasse. The plan was to catch the bus to the airport. We figured this would be easier than taking the RER. After about thirty minutes of drama, we finally found the right bus. I said goodbye and cried more than a handful of tears, then turned and walked away. Wow, it was hard. I walked home, hopped in bed and slept for four hours. I felt better when I woke up.
Girls, THANK YOU for making that my best week in Paris. I have so many memories here and you two are part of them. There are places that I will go that will forever remind me of the times we had here. I hope you two enjoyed yourself and will move somewhere great so that I can come visit you :) I love you two!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
