Prior to my retirement, eighteen months ago, I had planned that I would spend one month in Paris and live like a native. About six months ago, I rented a two bedroom in Le Marais, a very eclectic and safe district in Paris. I departed on Monday for my month long adventure with my husband and my mother in tow. Neither one of them had ever been to Europe, and I was so anxious to show them around my favorite city!
Our flight arrived on time at 8:30 AM, and we were met by a concierge service from the aparment rental company. The apartment is quite quaint. It is in a building that is at least a hundred years old, or older. For those of you who are joining me in a week or so, the outside of the apartment is being renovated, so the view from the living area is horrid!!! We slept fairly well last night, but the noise outside does get a little getting used to. David and I bought a rotating fan today, so that should help with the ground noise. The temperatures have ranged from about 75 to the middle 50's. It is a pleasant relief from the sweltering heat of Texas.
Today, we went on a train to Monet's Jardin in Giverny. We managed to learn the Metro system and even ventured out of town on the RER. David and I are quite proud of ourselves for this accomplishment. My seventy-five year old mother has been a trooper!!! She has managed to keep up with us all day. We treated ourselves to a shampoo and blow-dry this evening, and it was fabulous. Can you believe that there is a salon two doors down from my apartment?
As I always do, I am going to share with you some lessons I have learned these last two days.
1. Even though I have studied French for one year, I cannot understand it or speak a damn thing worth saying! I think David knows more than I do.
2. People on the Metro need to have a little bit of Southern "mothering." When an elderly lady gets on the bus, you get your young butt up and give her a seat!!!! This should not be a cultural thing!!! It is called good upbringing.
3. You cannot readily buy light beer in Paris.
4. Deodorant should be a part of every person's daily routine.
5. Women in Paris can ride a bicycle in heels better than any women on the planet, and they look so stinking chic, it makes me want to spit!
6. Summer scarfs are still in style.
7. Apparently, tights are making a comeback with shorts and skirts. I am not talking about the opaque tights; some of the "tres chic" are wearing sheer tights with shorts and skirts. I am praying this trend does not migrate across the pond.
8. Monet sure did know how to plant a garden.
9. A croque monsieur is never a bad idea.
10. There are always truly good people who you meet in this world...the type of people who make your heart smile and make you realize that we all have so much in common. The sweetest little old lady helped us to navigate the Metro yesterday. She spoke no English, and I (unfortunately) spoke no French, but with her helpful gestures, we were able to board the correct train. Bless her little heart.
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