Three Cheers for some Cooler Days in Paris…Finally
Bonjour,
Yesterday was wonderful…cool, breezy, and such a relief from the oppressive heat. Our plan had been to have a picnic lunch down by the river but some rain thwarted that just as it was almost time to go. We will try again today.
Speaking of the river, we are a bit dismayed that the Paris Plages or Paris Beach has been significantly amended this year. After some internet research, I found that it actually began on July 8th and runs until September 3; however, the BIG difference this year is that there will be no sand! Yes, there are palm trees, and blue beach umbrellas, and misters for hot days, but it’s always been the sand that drew the bathing suits, the children with their shovels and pails, and fantastic sand sculptures. Since our first years here, we have seen some delightful moments along the “beach.” They have generally barged in 3500 metric tons of sand! The change is most likely due to expense and to closing the autoroute permanently that used to run along the riverside. The roadway is now a promenade area which has been enhanced with tables, cafés, games, rope climbing, play areas for kids, and the beloved boules. Also stationery bikes to ride. So I guess one could say that there is now a “beach” every day. We’re disappointed, but I’m sure the promenade area on a daily basis will be loved by Parisians. It is always jammed.
After lunch, we visited a favorite spot or two knowing that our days are numbered. We walked through the beautiful Palais Royale (Palace, park, and shops) and then the best passage (old covered, shopping arcade) called Galerie Vivianne. Odette and Zoe is a lovely spot inside for refreshment, mine being a delicious cup of chocolat chaud.
Our evening soirée was with our dear friend, Ann Jeanne, who does very personalized walking tours through the eyes of a native Parisian (afriendinparis.com). She had arranged for a visit to a rooftop bar called “43 On the Roof” atop the Holiday Inn just near St. Michel. We had a lovely outing, and here’s a combination of Bernie’s and her pictures. 
Tonight, we will enjoy a dinner with the Bilbro’s at one of their favorite restaurants called Dessance. There will be pictures, of course!
Tomorrow, I plan to repost all of the “Purely Paris” Photos of the day for your selection of a favorite. Be sure to vote for one in the comment section. Today’s is a frequent sight around Paris: lovers and PDA!! (In case you don’t follow: Public Display of Affection)
À tout à l’heure,
L & B
July 21, 2017 @ 10:35 am
Lovely photos! Especially the tiles floors of Passage Galerie Vivianne and the metro entrance a the Palais Royal.
July 21, 2017 @ 10:36 am
And you both are as cute as can be!
July 21, 2017 @ 11:41 am
Merci, madame!
July 21, 2017 @ 5:59 pm
Agree Peggy! Wondering if you post your own photos from Paris … happy summer in the City of Light to the Huntsville contingent!
July 21, 2017 @ 9:24 pm
Peggy Bilbro is on Facebook and does post her Paris pictures. She’s a fabulous photographer and artist. You should friend her and her hubby Jim Bilbro.
July 22, 2017 @ 8:10 am
Will do! Hope they don’t think I’m some strange stalker!
July 22, 2017 @ 8:44 am
I will alert them that you’re a good gal to know!
July 22, 2017 @ 6:09 pm
Merci Linda! Missing you already x
July 21, 2017 @ 12:00 pm
What a lovely collection of photos today! The pictures of you and Bernie are wonderful! The roof top photos are great, so unusual. My favorite today may be the subway exit.
July 21, 2017 @ 1:20 pm
My favorite part of the day is waking up to your wonderful blog! I always feel like I’ve had a morning stroll through Paris! I’m afraid I’ll go into withdrawal when you leave. Luckily, a friend just gave me your book, so I’ll get to continue my morning read for awhile. Your writing and Bernie’s fabulous photos have been absolutely wonderful! Thank you for taking the time and effort to entertain us all!
July 21, 2017 @ 1:55 pm
You have made my heart sing. Enjoy the book!
July 21, 2017 @ 1:38 pm
enjoyed today’s pics as well…would not be able to pic my best or should say your best.
all done so well…thank you for this…love the pic of you and Bernie, with big smiles.
take care…
July 21, 2017 @ 1:51 pm
Fab photos!
Hope your Seine-side pique-nique is fun today. Hmm, a beach without sand … c’est Paris!?!
Cheers and bon appetit.
July 21, 2017 @ 5:19 pm
I have thoroughly enjoyed Paris this year! Merci beau coup!
July 21, 2017 @ 8:52 pm
These are the BEST photos so far! The cactus on right hand side is a cat ready to pounce!
You are Tres chic Parisian Street Stlye! Gorgeous! I love the window display of the cat dress?
And the woman with hair color on the street! The beautiful mosaic floors, and the
magnificent views,I hate the beach! And Bernie being Bernie is Awesome!
I am overcome! I have loved every blog, and really, really hate to see the end. We must
Meet soon after your return, while all is still fresh and heartfelt! LOVE to you Both! Layne
July 21, 2017 @ 9:22 pm
We are so glad you have enjoyed the blog and photos. Yes, let’s get together soon!!