Hitting Our Stride on Second Day in Paris
Bonjour,
It isn’t easy to incorporate the body clock switch when traveling abroad with new food, new water, new bed, etc. and it’s especially difficult the older we get. Our message: don’t delay. Travel when your days are younger. We do “okay” but it’s getting more and more difficult. Slowly we are making progress. I slept 8 hours last night from 8pm to 4am. That’s still slightly out of kilter but getting there. Bernie with his military background adjusts so much quicker and easier than I do. I affectionately tell folks that he’s like a well-seasoned iron pot. How I envy his flexibility, even at age 85. My system is sensitive to every living thing…ugh!
Yesterday, I purchased a new power strip at the Monoprix to accommodate all of our kitchen appliances. It’s always a mad cluster of cords and adapters trying to make everything work. Bernie had made an efficient configuration of it all so when I waked up at 4am today, I was surprised to find that I had no microwave, toaster or coffee pot. I believe the power strip was a dud! Out of desperation, the coffee pot and toaster ended up on the floor close to another power strip which works. Trying to return it will be a challenge as I failed to get the receipt. C’est complique!
Yesterday (Sunday) was Mother’s Day here in France and we met our friend Hannah at Au Bourguignon du Marais for a nice lunch and long visit. Alas, forgot to take photos but we’ll see her again soon.
Our apartment is on rue St. Paul, and yesterday it was all pedestrian to accommodate a street-long flea market which the French refer to as “brocante.” Maybe our word would be junk or knick-knacks or antiques. It’s a wide range of items and most interesting to ramble through…art, clothing, furniture, jewelry. Where is “Antiques Roadshow” when you need them?
We love our home away from home: classy location, elevator and the very quiet and beautiful courtyard which we face.
My daughter and her family will be in an apartment directly across the street from us which is pretty cool. Amazing that she found this on VRBO. They are having a great time in London and will arrive here on Wednesday evening on the Eurostar.
On the weekends, the merry-go-rounds activate across the city. We have one right next to the subway stop at St. Paul. Such an old but cherished tradition in Paris.
Several of you have suggested themes for this year and I’m still considering what to pursue. The theme has to be quick and easy to snap and readily available. One suggestion was hats but I’m hesitant because with warmer weather ahead, I’m wondering how often they’ll be seen. Here’s one to start with.
Bernie and I are grateful to all of those who gave their lives so that we could live freely and safely in America. Happy Memorial Day to all.
A bientôt
L & B
May 26, 2025 @ 7:23 am
‘Traveling’ is the hardest part of traveling! Love being there but getting there is a challenge. Love the brocantes. You never know what you might see.
May 26, 2025 @ 8:28 am
Did you try the “working” power strip up on the counter? If it didn’t work, perhaps there’s a switch to make the counter outlet work? Eager to see you soon! Glad you enjoyed some time with Hannah 🙂
May 26, 2025 @ 11:42 am
We got it to work after all. Probably operator error. I don’t think Bernie pushed the plugs in all the way. All is working fine now.
May 26, 2025 @ 10:18 am
Linda, I’m glad you made it back to Paris. John and I have spent over a week in Ireland and now we’re touring Scotland. Everything is so green and beautiful here! You are right about traveling when you are younger. In a few more years, I don’t think I could have climbed all of the spiral castle steps! I look forward to getting more updates from your blog.
May 26, 2025 @ 11:18 am
May we continue to have the freedom, independence, and democracy that many were willing to die for. Love you both!
May 26, 2025 @ 12:15 pm
Thanks, Linda! Have a great time!
May 26, 2025 @ 12:51 pm
Linda,
Congratulations on your Accommodations! Looks and sounds like a winner! And the bonus of having your family across the street from you is amazing! What a way to begin your trip! I’d suggest photos of whatever moves you in the moment. Enjoy your day. Love to Bernie.
May 26, 2025 @ 1:04 pm
We’re getting a 2fer. London and Paris in the same blog. Enjoying them both.
Thank you
May 26, 2025 @ 2:43 pm
I am so looking forward to seeing Paris again through your pictures and words. Enjoy your time.
May 26, 2025 @ 7:17 pm
Oh I love the merry-go-rounds! How wonderful to be there with you. Happy times soon with more family in Paris! Thank you for these scenes!