Blogs from Paris, Île-de-France, France, Europe

As we write this posting the grey roofs and cobbled courtyard around our apartment are glistening with the gentle rain that has been falling rather persistently during the day making for a more gentle rhythm in the city. This mood has been further mellowed by the fact that is it yet another French public holiday (Pentecost) , the fourth since the beginning of May. While we have ventured out for various necessary tasks and an abortive attempt to get into L'Orangerie (wet day, public holiday, one of the few museums open on Monday all perfectly aligning to result in an hour and a half queue in the chill breeze and rain to get in … we will return another day before we leave, thanks!) we are now warmly tucked up in our apartment enjoying a nice ... read more

On Friday it rained again! Good thing we didn't come here for the weather. We drove out to Haulerwijk in Friesland to visit the cemetary where my maternal grandparents and favourite Aunt were buried. The next day, May 18, we drove our awesome Peugeot back to Zwolle and said goodbye to Eunice, our trusty British GPS guide. We re-filled the tank and to our great amusement we found gloves hanging beside the pumps, Holland is without a doubt the cleanest country in the entire world (photo). On the theme of keeping things clean, once we got into the Thalys train we got out the hand sanitizer gift from Bella and "bitch-slapped" some germs (photo). The Thalys train was fast - as in 300 km/hr and a smooth ride. Coming out of the train in Paris was ... read more

As I mentioned in a previous post, I was well overdue for a vacation. Both mom and I have certainly been taking full advantage of being away and have been getting some much need rest and relaxation. We have been (and very uncharacteristically so ...) sleeping in later than usual and we have enjoyed watching French movies as we wind down the day. Having travelled many times with my mom, we both just love wandering around and actually usually get more pleasure in being in less crowded areas and jut enjoy being "off the beaten track". Although being in Paris means that you have to see the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe, we have found much enjoyment in going through the small side streets and just discovering what there is to be discovered. Our ... read more

Tuesday Morning Finally, I think that jet lag has worn off and Jerry seems to have kicked the worst of his head cold, that or the French drugs are really good. In any event the plan for the day is to head to the St. Germaine area of Paris, have lunch and then walk the Luxembourg Gardens. In our previous trips to Paris we have never managed to get to this section before. Tonight Jerry will be attending a wine and cheese course while I take an evening market class (both at the same school). This morning I have been having my coffee and doing some work, just a few more payroll reports and that part will be done. Random Musing I have not added this section of the blog up until now, as ... read more