Day 4 - Beignets in Montparnasse

Today definitely began on a more low-key note. First of all, I didn't even wake up until 7:45. While I was showering, Sam did her usual breakfast run. My girl has always enjoyed her alone time on a trip - exploring new places on her own - and when it's safe, I like to let her do it. So off she went for pain chocolate and coffee (for her) and an "escargot" (raisin pastry) for me.

We got a bit of a late start but made it for our return trip to the Louvre by about 9:45. This time we visited the less hectic Richlieu and Sully wings. We really enjoyed it, particularly the Egyptian and Assyrian antiquities. We even saw the original tablet of Hammurabi's Code

After finishing up at the Louvre around 11:30, we began our long trek up thru the Tuileries and then the entire length of the Champs-Elysees. As usual, the weather looked threatening the entire time and, as usual, we felt not a single drop of rain. We have been so lucky. It has been cool though - only mid 60s and usually a stiff breeze and no sun. But we came prepares with layers and all the hiking around ensures that we stay fairly warm.

We stopped at a tiny cafe in the Tuileries for some tomato and fresh mozzarella on baguettes (so good) before the serious walking began.

There was tons of construction and other impediments, but we did our best to stay on course. We were less than impresses with all the high-end shops near the Arc de Triomphe and gave them a wide berth (hope my husband is reading this part).

Finally arrived at the Arc and were delighted to find 1) no lines to climb to the top and 2) that our Museum Passes covered the admission. It was a long climb up about a bazillion steps (on very sore and tired feet and legs) but so worthwhile. We loved being at the top and having a commanding view of this city that we both already love.

Our next stop, we decided on the spur of the moment, would be Montmartre. Since one of our favorite activities tends to be exploring interesting areas of the city, it seemed a logical choice.

And it WAS a good choice. We wandered every inch of Montmartre,including Sacre Coeur (arg! More stairs!) and the bohemian little artist area nearby. A wonderful way to spend an afternoon.

We had a long Metro ride "home" but feel very comfortable with our ability to get around the city now. Sam laughed her head off when we arrived at our stop and I popped up to unlatch the door - trying to be the seasoned professional. Suddenly the train gave a final lurch and I literally flew into the wall - while trying to maintain my dignity. Not an easy task when your 18 year old is laughing at you. And speaking of Sam, she has been very well received in Paris. Not just the guys - who have blown kisses at her and shouted "I love you!" across the street, but the average Paisienne, who just appreciates the fact that this American teenager actually bothered to learn French.

We came back to the hotel early and had a little coffee (Sam again) and wine in our hotel's "lounge" area while I read and Sam sketched a little. Later we went out to dinner at one of the creperies on what we have come to call "Crepe Row" - the street adjacent to ours on which we have actually counted 10 separate creperies.

Hard to believe it's already our final night in Paris - we leave for London via train tomorrow afternoon. I have to say that we took Paris by storm and have seen a LOT - with tomorrow morning still to go.

So far, so amazing.