Two Birthdays in One on Quatorze Juillet
Bonjour mes amis,
Our plans came together yesterday in glorious fashion. Warmer, dryer weather mixed with fly-overs, a little Van Gogh, Kir Royales (pink champagne), and birthday candles brought smiles to everyone.
Our usual habit on La Fète Nationale is to go to one of the bridges to watch the fly by. It started out very cool and rainy.
Another tradition didn’t happen. For years, the parade has broken up on rue St. Antoine (our busy street) but that cannot happen anymore because the Mayor has completely redesigned the busy thoroughfare with center barriers and two very busy bike lanes. Some call it progress; others bemoan the fact of all the changes. We were disappointed.
We were off to Le Musée d’Orsay for a look at the old train station and the impressionists. We forgot that some of the subway stops were closed for the parade and took a very LONG subway ride to double back. Then had to walk about a mile to get to the museum. Here’s a peek:
The kids did fairly well but were disappointed that only one of the two versions of “Starry Night” by Van Gogh were displayed here. The more familiar one is in New York.
We took a refreshment break and guess what, a little more shopping for the gals.
Our evening was all about the birthday for Emily and dinner at Café Marly. I had worried about the menu selections but everyone gobbled up their choices in a flash. It was a memory we hope Emily will cherish. An expensive memory…ha!
Our choice for both the birthday meal and the fireworks viewing had been a river boat cruise, but the gals were not a fan. So weeks ago, we started searching for a good alternative… that we could afford. The better spots which we have done in the past have risen to outrageous prices…as much as €595 per person. With five of us, that was impossible. So we chose Café Marly and then a viewing spot from the Tuileries Gardens. It was not ideal but gave a taste of the beauty and fun. The ambiance was lively and loud, and the attendees were YOUNG. Surely Bernie and I were the oldest two hanging on at midnight!!! Enjoy the photos which by the way are some of the most difficult to capture.
Thanks for sharing our special day. And, yes, FOR SURE we’re off to Montmartre. Sunshine!
À bientôt
L & B
July 15, 2021 @ 11:38 am
Love the pictures from today. Bastille Day flyover photos were beautiful. Pictures from Le Muse’e d’ Orsay brought back fond memories. Emily’s birthday celebration was very special. Everyone looked handsome and lovely. Cafe’ Marley was a spectacular choice for your celebration. I hope your family loves Montmartre as much as you do. I know it’s one of our favorite places.
July 15, 2021 @ 12:09 pm
Love it! Thank you for all the fabulous art!!! Lovely photos at Cafe Marly. What memories you are providing for them.
July 15, 2021 @ 12:51 pm
You and Bernie went all out to create an incredible birthday for Emily! The photos are, as always, simply superb!
July 15, 2021 @ 1:39 pm
Happy birthday Emily enjoy your special day in the most beautiful place in the world
July 15, 2021 @ 2:47 pm
Beautiful day in so many ways! Thanks for the pictures at the d’Orsay, my favorite place in Paris. You and Bernie are excellent tour guides!
Nancy Colin
July 15, 2021 @ 4:00 pm
Cafe Marley and fireworks were perfect. You’ve gone over and above to make the birthday celebration one to never forget. All looked so elegant. Especially Bernard!🥳😉
July 15, 2021 @ 4:46 pm
Loved this blog with all the smiles and happy – fun times. Happy Birthday Emily!
July 15, 2021 @ 5:54 pm
We always watch the fireworks from Place de la Concorde. We’ve never been brave enough to try the crowds at the Eiffel Tower. I suppose that wasn’t an option this year anyway.
July 17, 2021 @ 11:28 am
What a great set of photos! Happy birthday to Emily! She is gorgeous in that dress! I’m glad you were able to find a spot to watch the fireworks. It is a wonderful experience no matter where you are standing.
July 18, 2021 @ 12:42 am
This is a dream come true for all of you. So lovely!