Early November Random Notes

We feel like we're finally hitting our stride -- after being here over seven weeks.  The stages of a long-stay trip like this might be something like: 1) All this stuff to do!; 2) It's changed and we've seen it all...; 3) Wow, we remember what we like about Paris!; 4) OK, we're ready to go home...; and 5) But when will we get here next?

Walking around on this, the first Sunday of the month.  Very limited car traffic -- Mayor Hidalgo has prohibited most non-commercial traffic.  Saw a guy playing a 10' didgeridoo on the sidewalk in the Marais District.  Saw a Chinese kid with dreadlocks at Notre Dame. Purple dreadlocks.  Continue to see WAY more people than this same time 4 years ago.  Continue to notice WAY more empty store fronts and wonder why?  Continue to notice how "boutique" experiences (chocolates, breads, etc.) have become chains and wonder about the French having discovered American commercialism.

Is Paris becoming Disneyland (or Venice, Italy)?  Just with good food and lingerie stores?  I hope not.

Walking down the street from our apartment.  110 steps.  Three different conversations in English by the students heading home from SciencesPo.  All I could think was "7 years of french (mine) down the drain!"

In my Marais wanderings I was caught peering through the gate of a large complex with a polished brass sign saying "Private Residence".  One of the residents invited me in for a tour.  He's a clothing designer and with good reason is very proud of where he lives.  There's one inner courtyard with two fountains and pools. Down another corrider, there's a second courtyard with a large grassy area.  I guess he had some time to kill -- I'm very appreciative that he showed me around. Wish I'd taken pictures!

Here are some pictures from wandering Paris:










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