Bastille Day
Bonjour,
Today is a very special day for the French, celebrating what is equivalent in some ways to America’s Fourth of July. It goes by many names, simply Quatorze (14) or La Fete Nationale or Bastille Day. Our usual process of celebration begins with a trip to Pont d’Ecole by l’Hotel de Ville because it’s one of the few bridges which has park benches. This year instead of riding the subway, we decided to walk the Paris Plage in the very cool morning air. The fly-by of the French colors, Bleu, Blanc, Rouge (blue, white, red) is just awesome, no matter how many times you’ve seen it. Such fun to watch the children’s faces light up with delight. In past years and younger days, we’ve done the parade on the Champs and the big fireworks tonight from the Eiffel Tower. This year we are just happy to be here in a country where “Liberty, Equality and Fraternity” are cherished.
So hot off the press are today’s photos beginning with our walk along the river:
Every year, we laughingly remember the major screw-up about ten years ago when the smoke was loaded red instead of blue in the first plane. It made the morning papers.
Yesterday was another fete of sorts, a celebration of friendship with Richard Nahem and his partner Vincent. Richard is responsible for so much of our joy here in Paris as he has introduced us to many special places, exhibits, and cafés, etc. I follow his blog every day and keep a running list of places to see. (This year’s was left behind unfortunately.) Richard is a tour guide so he’s always up on the latest and greatest in Paris. He’s been at it now about the same amount of time we’ve been coming to Paris and his apartment is a stone’s throw away. Be sure to read his blog today at http://www.eyepreferparistours.com for some great background info.
We invited them for a rendezvous to say goodbye and Richard suggested a new pop-up café…here today gone tomorrow designed and operated by Longchamp. Too bad it’s not going to be permanent because it got an A-plus in all categories, especially since it was air-conditioned!
Enjoy our photos! Thanks, Richard, for so many great years of friendship!!
Good friends, good fun, good food, good weather…that is summer in Paris!!!
A bientôt
L & B
July 14, 2025 @ 12:18 pm
I’d know those shadows anywhere!
July 14, 2025 @ 12:28 pm
Thanks very much Linda. First saw the Patrouille at the Paris Air Show in 1967 as a 1st Lt commander with a USAF team from Germany. I think the only holiday that rivals Bastille Day is Armistice Day.
July 14, 2025 @ 1:13 pm
You look good in the blue dress and white necklace. Nice day. Thanks
July 14, 2025 @ 1:54 pm
Linda,
I will miss your daily comments and pictures. You do such a great job of showing the daily flavor of Paris. How quickly those 2 months have gone. I’m happy you didn’t have non-stop visitors this year and could have some more relaxed days than in the past. I hope you and Bernie will still be able to come again next year. As we age, we know that this time could be our last time. But, we must always proceed as if there is a next time. I look forward to your wrap-up and sage comments.
Bon Voyage ( just a bit early)
Bonnie
July 14, 2025 @ 4:05 pm
Merci beaucoup! Always appreciate your comments.
July 14, 2025 @ 2:07 pm
I always loved being there on Bastille Day – and usually had wonderful weather, lucky us! Your dress and the cafe look splendid!! Richard’s plate was beautiful even though I’m not a fish enthusiast- pretty colors! Ppl swimming in the river?? Thought it was quite dirty?! Love the shadow capture- good eye! Wish I was still there for the food, company & sites of Paris 🙂
July 14, 2025 @ 4:05 pm
Wish you were still here as well but it has been hot. Though much better today.