Part Two

From my visit with David, I went to a local cafe for a nosh. I order a coffee, and then decided I would have my favorite small plate, because I love the sauce they prepare for their des oeufs mayonnaises.

I stayed here awhile, people watching. One woman came by asking for directions, but I couldn’t understand her at all. I told her I was American and explained I was here to learn French, mais pour j’ai du mal a comprendre français parlé – she agreed it was a difficult language to hear when spoken, because they all speak so fast. (This I understood). The gentleman next to me, stood and looked on the buildings to find the address she was searching for and began to escort her in the right direction. She then turned to me, and wished me “Bon Courage” in my studies.

When the gentleman returned to the table next to me, I decided to say hello first (AN ABSOLUTE RULE IN PARIS!), and then asked what he was drinking. It looked like a cold drink – but he said it was chocolat chaud. Vraiment? Oui, he offered me the glass to feels its warmth myself. I thought it was maybe a specialty coffee. But on that note, Paris is known for its chocolat chaud.

He recommended to me that I listen to French radio. He thought it was the best way for me to adapt my ear and to keep up with the changes occurring in the language. He didn’t speak English, but he was easy to understand, and it was yet another wonderful conversation. And honestly, if I hadn’t said « Bonjour, » and inquired as to his drink, we would never have even looked at each other. That’s the beauty in this city for me. You can be as introverted as you want, or as engaged.

I took the Metro back to my quartier, picked up some flowers and my daily bread and stayed in for the night.