In Paris we stay at a super tiny studio apartment in the Montmartre neighborhood. A little bit above us is the Bascillica which is one of the most visited spots in Paris. But where we are, a few blocks from the Jules Joffrin stop (Metro Line 12) it is mostly local, almost entirely French speaking. But slowly over the past few days we have acclimated to the point where I only sometimes come back with hot chocolate instead of the cappuccino Corey requested. I actually no longer frequent that boulangerie (bakery). I now go to the closer boulangerie  where the nice woman greets me with an enthusiastic “Good morning!” before giving me what I want and not what I order.

Paris is quite simply the most beautiful city in the world (or at least the most beautiful city we have ever visited). It is also one of the happiest cities we have ever visited. At least that is what it seems like on the surface; our inability to speak French greatly limits our dive into the culture pool. But at cafes or at the cinema or wherever everyone is always so engaged with one another. Couples cuddle everywhere and even the smoking is done with affection. We have no idea what anyone is saying but we so do want to be part of the conversation.

One successful dive into the French pool of life was our fun day with local guides Kristine, Francoise and Pierre. Last year we gave them Covid. This year it was just bad jokes and a lot of questions about French history (both from me). They in turn showed off the charms of Saint Vincennes (it has a castle!). Mostly we drank and played cards within a fun outdoor space located within an ancient woods. Afterwards they escorted us through the woods (spooky) in time to catch the Metro back into the city. We got home close to midnight which in fifty year old time is actually 4 AM.

So this week in Paris is almost complete. Thank you Mom and Dad for the Museum Pass! And thank you Chad and Alex for the pass to the Rodin Museum! We actually saw the Rodin Museum over two days which was a great way to do it. Au revoir!