Friends and Neighbors in Paris – Life’s Blessings
Dear mes amis,
I’m seeking to keep this blog a focal point of positive vibes. It’s hard to stay positive, at least for me. But the best we can all do is the best we can do, mais oui? I had distant family affected by the tornado in Chattanooga—two 90-year-olds who hid in a small bathroom and listened as their entire home was destroyed around them. They are okay, but very sad and have no other family to help them. My son-in-law’s mother is quite ill in Florida, and he left today to be with her in her fight against cancer. Prayers!
I needed something really joyous to post about today so I have decided to center on all the friends and neighbors we have met in Paris. So much joy and friendship has come from our 16 years of visits. And for me, so much cultural absorption of getting to know and appreciate the French and other friends from all around the world. Travel is the great teacher, and does break down barriers. I hope these photos bring many smiles.
First, our friends and neighbors living within blocks of our apartment and some in the same building. Among these are Bernie’s “drinking buddies” whom you’ve heard about before.
Next is our dear friend Anne Jeanne who has a blog that many of you follow.
Early days in the apartment when the kids were younger. This is one floor above us. Chantal on the left is across the hall from us.
I’m so aware that photos of people you don’t know is a stretch, but I hope you see the joy and fun that these relationships provide for us. They are all sheltering in place as we are.
Let’s stay in and stay strong!
L & B
April 15, 2020 @ 9:10 pm
Your blog is always an enjoyable escape-please keep them coming… Ironically, I am going thru old photos (some 1930ish and a few older than that) of my parents and family members. Thanks for sharing your fond memories… Stay strong and well.
April 15, 2020 @ 9:12 pm
I know you will miss these dear friends this year. It takes so long to find and establish friendships, that you hate to waste a single year not being in contact. Our trip is looking more and more doubtful, but we are still hoping Macron will let us in. I am so sorry your relatives have lost their home! What a terrible thing to happen at that age. A lifetime gone. So very sad for them. Stay strong and stay healthy. Hugs to you and Bernie.
April 15, 2020 @ 9:13 pm
Good friends are attracted to good friends… like you and Bernie. We’re so glad to be among your stateside friends. Your blog and photos are always welcomed as a bright moment in the day.
April 15, 2020 @ 9:15 pm
Hi Linda,
Thank you for more lovely photos. I always enjoy looking through them. The joy and the fun leaps out of them.
Love to you and Bernie,
Malcolm and Antonia x
April 15, 2020 @ 10:25 pm
So sorry to hear about your family. Enjoyed these happy faces.
April 16, 2020 @ 1:22 am
I’m terribly sorry to hear about your elderly relatives awful situation. I enjoyed looking at your joyful photos.
April 16, 2020 @ 1:42 am
Thanks for sharing your joy and your escape! Hugs dear friend and our best to Bernie!
April 16, 2020 @ 3:37 pm
There’s got to be a funny caption for the 1st picture. Maybe something about Walmart being out of Charmin too. I bet you can’t remember what you said to make the little girl with morning hair(maybe Alice) laugh out loud. Enjoyable. Tks
April 16, 2020 @ 9:22 pm
Thank you so much for including me and Clive in his post! We are honoured 🙂 and it’s always a joy to read your words and see your fab photos. You and Bernie just inspire people and are treasured friends for so many, including us.
I’m sorry to hear of your relatives and your son-in-law’s mother. Sending all positive thoughts for everyone going forward, whatever the next step may be. Take care you two and merci beaucoup xxxx
May 5, 2020 @ 3:11 am
These pictures of family and friends in Paris is certainly a respite from the sad news you shared. Very sorry to hear abt Natalie’s mother-in-law and abt ur Chattanooga aunts. Pray that all smooths out for you…and for them.