Springtime in Paris

Sunday in the park with everyone.

Bridge over the Seine.

Today, five or six days before the official beginning, spring arrived, and on a Sunday. It seemed that the entire population of Paris took to the streets, bridges and parks today. After two weeks of frequently damp and cloudy weather, it was such a treat. We strolled along the banks of the Seine, listened to street musicians, had coffee outdoors at a cafe and walked for four hours. After a mid-day R&R session we went to Luxembourg Gardens. There were so many people there! After a bit of scouting around, Andy snagged two of the metal chairs that are scattered all over the park. We read our books and did some people watching. Fewer scarves today, but black coats still prevail. The French actually do wear sneakers but only Converse All Stars. Little girls never wear pants, only skirts, and black opaque or lace tights are still in style with women of all ages.

For dinner we picked-up Lebanese takeout. Different. Luckily a customer there spoke English and she basically picked out everything for us. (Claire, we didn't have a copy of your email -- could have used it).

We also went to the Institute of the Arab World. Don't ask. It's a long story.

Should be sunny tomorrow but we have to pace our selves as we prepare for "The Longest Day". More on that later. -E.