Some More New Things I'm Learning About Paris

There are some things about Paris that are just different from the States, not better- not worse - just different. I am slowly becoming accustomed to my new way of life.

1. Despite the fact that shops may have signage that says they are open Mon-Sat from 11 - 7, I would highly suggest that you not mosey on over until after 12pm - it seems that many of the small shops wear a different watch then we do, and open up at their leisure.

2. I have noticed that when I go to the movies here, there can be 500 open seats, and the next person who comes into the theater chooses the seat right next to you, why, I do not know. It's like standing on the metro, and somehow, within seconds, you notice that you are no longer standing in the same place, but find another french person standing in your original spot. As a friend said, and I paraphrase, "just remember, wherever you are, that's where the french want to be!" Makes me laugh.

3. Be careful as a woman making eye contact with a man. The minute you do, they take that as an invitation, and you will find yourself being asked out all the time, and most of them are not men you have any interest in. When I looked up at the museum guard (who's left eye sort of traveled within its' socket), because he seemed to be circling me, that was it - it was all over. "Would you like to go for a cup of coffee? ", he asks... "No sorry, I say in french, I see someone." And with that, I am quickly out of the museum and back on my path for the day.
4. Water; Avis and I rate our restaurants based on the delivery of water. When we order our coffee, we almost always ask for a bottle of water. Many places will bring them both together, but many, well, you can ask, and ask and ask - you could be dehydrated and fainting, and good luck, if that water ever comes.

But all in jest, as there are so many more things to love about Paris.

Waking up to such a beautiful city, is incroyable! Everyday, I feel blessed by my surroundings - and you can't quite grasp the depth of it until you live it.

Paris is a walking city - everything is at your doorstep. To hop a metro (when the metro isn't striking!), and be just about anywhere you want to go within 15 minutes is a civilized way to live.

The language is like a lullaby, sometimes i just eavesdrop on a conversation just to hear the sounds. Sitting in cafes, the ease of the way of life. All the different specialty shops for cheeses and meats and wines, and even olive oil, makes shopping feel like a luxury. Living amongst so many grand museums, and just popping in to see a new exhibit, as part of your day.

I love Los Angeles - it holds a history and lifelong friendships, and most importantly, it is where my family lives. People I miss, but hold in my heart while I am here.

So for now, as long as my heart is filled with my family and friends, I think I'll settle into Paris for a while.