Paris avec les amis

The next two days were filled with breakfasts of café au lait and croissants on the Champs-Élysées and exploring the city streets and history of Paris! We took in the breathtaking view of the city from halfway atop the Eiffel Tower, and wound around the Louvre, exploring ancient works of art and timeless talent, while snapping pics of Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo and other remarkably moving masterpieces! We discovered the winding streets around Maison Eymard and Ave de Friedland, sifted through très cher shops, and sat in cafés and bistros where all the tables and chairs overlooked the bustling street outside.

We trekked up over 400 steps to the top of the bell tower of Notre Dame, and took in an additional striking eagle eye view of the city, complete with animated gargoyles and chimeras. For two days we dodged rainy afternoons and bought newsstand umbrellas that were upended in the wind; avoided other elaborate scams (one including a massive and bright gold ring), and explored artsy side-street shops while enjoying wine in the evenings and chocolate mousse with dinner.

Atop the Notre Dame Bell Tower

The final night was spent with Carla & Chris, and Anna & Cathy enjoying dinner in the Latin Quarter, followed by a not too spooky Ghost Tour of Paris with an enchanting appreciation for the romantic charm of the historic Parisian streets at night.

As Friday morning approached, I bid my Canadian amis adieu and relaxed in a café to reflect, write and savour a café au lait with a pain chocolat, before embarking on the metro to Bagnolet to spend the next few days with my brother Alex…