I love Paris every moment…
Liz modeling a chapeaux in the flea market
I sometimes fantasize (actually, more than sometimes) about living in Paris. I feel like I’m in a trance when I’m there. Every place I turn, I see something that captivates me. The corner angle of a 16th century building, a woman buying a baguette at the local boulangerie, a fashion shop window display (oh, those Paris fashion shops!). I love listening to the language, watching French lovers in the Metro, seeing a shopkeeper proudly scrubbing the street in front of his business. I even feel a little giddy the moment I spot the Eiffel Tower.
Dinner from the market at Bon Marche
My fantasy life in Paris includes living in a flat in St-Germain-des-Pres, with a balcony, of course, overlooking the famous rooftops; a stroll through a different neighborhood every day, with no special place I need to go; shopping for my dinner at the glorious market in Bon Marche, and snooping through Les Puces de Saint-Ouen (that’s the flea market) on a late fall Sunday afternoon, just as dusk is settling over the city.
The last time I saw Paris was a few months ago. I hadn’t been there for seven years because I always had too many obligations at home. I never stopped longing to go. Since that last short—but enchanting—trip, I’ve promised myself I will return at least once a year, as I used to do.
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ummmmm it’s all true. Paris is a fantasy….my favorite street Rue de Bac must have a flat waiting for me (just not sure if it is this lifetime!) We have house exchanged three times in the St-Germaine-des-Pres area…very near to the Bon Marche, once over Xmas and New Year’s, the food is especially incredible during the holiday season! Last year we were there in April, next year I am not sure but, I think the fall perhaps? Planning yet another exchange can’t wait, perhaps our paths will cross there!
Hi Heather
I too love Rue de Bac. Who do you use for house exchanges?
Geri
I have so many memories of Paris. All of France, in fact. Not quite sure what to do with them. Maybe you are right. Time to go back.
Yes, but it is a fantasy. I much prefer Strasbourg where I fled at 17 to live for a few years. Is there really room on FOF for women who do not strictly subscribe to the French as a reduction-to-chocolate-&-accessories? I’m not being snarky at all….just wondering. I tend to think of the other side of the street…where 3/4 of the people of Paris do not live in what we know as Paris. I’m for dreaminess & realism. Which by the way is very French (or so my French friends tell me).
I’m enjoying your posts…but feel slightly left out as it seems to be only people who feel that adversity is a gift. I do not subscribe to such notions having lived in very difficult places, circumstances, seen quite a lot of truly horrific events. I’m shrugging my shoulders. I should write something more thought out but I’m not going to. I’ve been thinking this ever since Joanna posted your link. I enjoy it but hold back, thinking…I don’t know….
Have a great weekend.
xo
Hi Susan,
I am very interested in what you have to say, but would love you to explain your adversity comment and feeling left out.
I do understand that Paris isn’t all chocolate and accessories. Living in New York doesn’t allow me to fantasize much…so my mind travels to Paris (but the sunny side of the street.)
A good weekend to you too.
oxo Geri
Hi Geri,
I’ve always used http://www.homeexchange.com
The only thing to be prepared for with the French is they usually just walk out the door
with no special prep….meanwhile back at the ranch I have usually done full spring cleaning left extra loo paper etc. etc. It is great in the end though when you are minus the giant hotel charge on the Visa card.
Heather