Paris, July 19, 2014

Ken is spending the day with a family friend who lives in Blois, in the Loire Valley. They are going to the Orangerie to see the huge Monets.  I went out early this morning and got us a flûte this time...a little fatter than a ficelle.  After Ken left, I went and had my nails done in a little salon right around the corner owned by a young Vietnamese woman...just like at home.  Very few places do acrylic nails...I just got lucky.  They should last until I get home.  Then shopping....groceries and fruit.  We are so lucky to have a Carrefour right next door, a cheese and pâté shop round the corner across from a fruit and vegetable market.  Wine shop next door also...but Carrefour has a great selection.  It is a like a little neighborhood and we are living la vida! Our favorite place is Paul, aboulangerie/pâtisserie/traiteur/café,  just on the corner.  It is celebrating its 125th year.  

Betty and Ken came back around 5 and we chatted.  we had expected to have an early dinner with her, but her train left earlier than we expected and she left around 6:30.  We decided to eat at home, so we went to Paul and we got quiches...the REAL quiche Lorraine...they heated them up for us and not in a microwave!  Then we got a flûte and a tartelette au citron for Ken and a tartelette au caramel for me. All incredibly delicious.  But you should see the range of tarts and pastries.....I can't even being to enumerate them....each one a work of art.

The apartment, about which I have not spoken much before looks out onto the courtyard of a building.  As such, it is quiet and cool.  As soon as we leave the building, we are caught up in the noise of rue de Buci with its cafés and buskers.  People are all still enjoying themselves well into the wee hours, so we are happy we are in the courtyard. Here are some photos...and they are mine, Ben Diamond! 😃  The living room is pictured here complete with galley kitchen which includes washer AND dryer!  On each side of the living room is a double bedroom, each with its own bathroom.  We are very comfortable. And, there are so many plugs and power strips.  Not like the old days when you were lucky if you found one plug or had to unplug the only lamp. LOL

I must add that, when we open the windows, we do hear noises from the various apartments, especially the clatter of dishes and pots and pans....of people cooking their meals.  Sounds so homey!

From my bedroom...little patio.

From living room.