Rain, Rain, and More Rain in Paris
Bonjour,
I’ve been rearranging plans like crazy to accommodate this awful weather we’re having. Last week was lovely and next week looks mostly sunny so what did we do to deserve this?? I’ve never been quiet about preferring sunshine days in Paris, especially since it’s mid-July, for goodness sake. Cold…windy… rainy.
We cancelled Montmartre as it’s a wonderful outside experience. Instead we opted for Les Galeries Lafayette, the huge and lovely premiere department store in Paris. In French, it’s referred to as Le Grand Magasin. The store was founded in 1893 by two cousins who opened a small notions shop in the corner of rue La Fayette and rue de la Chaussée d’Antin. The rest is history as it grew into one of the world’s largest and most successful department stores. Their food store across the street is another delight. Our crew said “Not today.”
We noticed some distinct differences this year as compared to previous years, all related, I’m sure, to the pandemic. Of course, the hordes of tourists were absent; many sections on some of the floors were partitioned off with no inventory; and the amazing, creative, vibrant merchandise displays were not nearly as spectacular. Also, the food court on the top floor had only two choices where there used to be four or five. One must realize that the store took a devastating financial hit from being closed for such a long time. We are just glad they survived!
The kids requested a late start which really didn’t matter because of the rain so we didn’t head out until almost noon. Despite all, we managed to salvage a good time in this remarkable store.
Carson’s fun was riding the escalator up and down, observing the elevators, and posing as a model. He has been an absolute pleasure to have around. He even repaired a broken lamp in our apartment!
The rain nixed the great view of Paris from up top, though Carson did find Notre Dame and Montmartre. Emily managed to drop a few euros (again!) for two new purses.
We took a little coffee break mid-afternoon and Natalie freaked when she realized her cappuccino was $10 in American money.
We walked to the classic opera house, Le Palais Garnier, with the intent of seeing the interior. Alas, it had already closed for the day. Luck just wasn’t on our side but the photo below is worth a million to me!
The thing I had worried about most was finding food they would all eat. That has ended up being the least of our worries. Last night we ate in the neighborhood at Le Royale Turenne, and it was much to their liking. 
Natalie requested doing a load of laundry in our washing machine while we ate dinner; then realized the dryer is four blocks up the street…in the rain. She got a real taste of our Paris life. “Why don’t they have dryers?” she asked. I have no good answer but most likely lack of space and expense.
Sorry, no doors or lovers today!
Tomorrow is July 14, Bastille Day or the national Independence Day. Also Emily’s 17th!! Oh, the plans we have, but all depends on the weather! Stay tuned.
À toute à l’heure,
L & B
July 14, 2021 @ 12:08 pm
Great picture of the three of you by , I assume, Carson. And absolutely love the one of the two of you. Those are precious, ALWAYS!!!!
July 14, 2021 @ 12:29 pm
Wonderful photo of you and your MARVELous grandson. What memories he’ll have!
July 14, 2021 @ 1:13 pm
Hope today is a better day! French food and wine for me tonight!
Thad
July 14, 2021 @ 1:29 pm
LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the coffee picture of Natalie, Bernie & U! Sounds like the necessary flexible schedule is still creating unforgettable opportunities for fun & special pictures!
July 14, 2021 @ 1:31 pm
Linda- you are NOT responsible for the weather! Those dear young guests of yours are taking in sights, sounds and the experience of a lifetime! They will always cherish the memories that no amount of rain can spoil.
When Dick and I traveled to Provence several years ago in the Spring it rained every day but somehow my memories of the trip are just as precious as if the weather had been perfect!
I realize you want perfection when you are the Tour Guide but give yourself a break and know that things will work out fine.
PARIS is magical come rain or come shine!
Dorcas
July 14, 2021 @ 1:32 pm
Happy birthday, my sweet girl! What could possibly be better than your 17th birthday on Bastille Day in Paris? Enjoy every minute!😘🎂
July 14, 2021 @ 2:06 pm
I just checked Paris weather for today and for the rest of the week and looks like the clouds should be parting. Good luck and Happy Birthday to Emily. I wonder at what age French are allowed a drivers license? Is Bastille day kind of a birthday?
July 14, 2021 @ 8:25 pm
Loved the banner photo, great cropping! Fooled me for a while…Carson shares a great sense of humour with his grandmother!
I enjoyed the blog despite the rain! 🙂 Happy Birthday to Emily and hope you all had a wonderful day and evening.
July 16, 2021 @ 3:27 am
I’ve loved Paris rain or shine. You are giving your family members such good experiences . Good tour guide, you!