I’ve been so busy, so I am now writing as fast as I can, trying to update my blog before I forget the details.

Today was the day I had a reservation at Les Deux Magots. It was the only available reservation, and I had grabbed it! I was scheduled to meet Lisa, her daughter Emily (in Paris!), and husband Harry, a little bit later, at the Louvre.

The queue for Les Deux Magots was loooooong, but I gave it barely a glance. I walked up and gave my name. I was on the list. That felt so good. Lol! I chose to sit outdoors, of course, and I was assigned a lovely seat. Even though the day called for rain, it was sunny. I enjoyed a nice lunch of Quiche Loraine, salad, and espresso. Très bien!!! I lingered, of course. I asked my waiter if he minded my taking some photos, explaining that I wanted to make paintings later. He didn’t mind at all — and in fact, he offered to pose, and I accepted! From there on, we had fun playing the roles. We joked that he would be the star of my piece of art.

Then, you’ll be shocked to learn, I ordered champagne for dessert, which he said was a perfect choice. I’d saved my little chocolate square that they had served with my espresso for this finishing moment. When he brought a bottle of Veuve Clicquot over to the table, I smiled big time, saying it was my favorite. He said it was the House Champagne. OMG, I must be in Heaven. More posing/photos.

After this scrumptious experience, I walked over the Louvre to meet my friends who had booked a tour for us. Our guide was wonderful. Really special. Her name was Victoria, and she was French and knew all the shortcuts. I loved the stories she shared about all the different pieces of art that she’d selected for our tour. It didn’t matter that I’d seen them before because each time is new. I was surprised at how well I’d memorized the layout of the Louvre and knew exactly where we were going.

Afterwards, we were all hungry, and I decided to take them to a lesser known restaurant for crêpes. Even though it was only an 18-minute walk, I think it took us more like 40 minutes because we stopped at the Bouquinistes to view posters, postcards, artwork, books, etc., and did some shopping. (Seems we weren’t quite as hungry as we thought. Lol!) We all bought a little something.

Then we came upon a wonderful painter (watercolorist), and Lisa and her daughter bought two small paintings. Lovely. I hope to go back to visit this fine gentleman.

I led them down Rue du Chat qui Pêche towards the Crêpe Resto. I laugh at how I’d once SEARCHED for this tiny road, and now I knew exactly how to get there. I told Harry he had to pose for us because he’s so tall and I knew he’d be able to touch both walls, no problem. He obliged!

Finally, meal time. Our crêpes were delicious, and we were able to just sit and chat about the day. The weather had varied from sunny, to drizzly, to rain, to humidity and discomfort, and back to a rather pleasant evening.

Harry and Emily enjoyed some gelato, and then I suggested we walk to Shakespeare & Co., which was so nearby. We took some photos and did a little more book shopping, and then I decided it was time for me to head home. I opted for the Métro!

That night, I felt so grateful and overwhelmed by all that Paris has given me these past 5 months. I let the tears flow. Tears of complete gratitude.