Lundi, lundi…
People who know me, know I have a kind of crush on the President of France, Emmanuel Macron. I love hearing him speak. I could listen to him read a phone book.
That said, he hits just the right note here…
To summarize,
This morning we’re all feeling a little nostalgic, there’s a kind of strange atmosphere that’s settled over the country – there are no more trials to follow, because there’s no more enthusiasm every morning, and we’ve lived for over two weeks in a country where we’ve had the feeling that something had changed, that life has taken its rightful place again, that at the end of the day, what we’ve lived these last few weeks is thanks to all of you.
I’m seriously near tears now. My magical city was even more magical than usual. How lucky was I to be here to experience this once-in-a-lifetime event. I’m aware. Caught up as I was in the events and sports and beauty of it all. I pushed back the deep feelings of awe and wow that I should be so lucky to enjoy this.
Today was a quiet day of reflection and rest. Luigi I needed to stay still because the temperature were set to be near 100 degrees Fahrenheit. So, no antics. Hardly any movement at all really, beyond a cool shower.
I watched some news and reviews of the Olympics, and took a nap or two.
The two weeks of Olympics just flew by, and I know my last 10 will be gone before I can blink an eye. That’s life, especially in Paris.
As you know, I was here before any barriers were up, or closures of Métro stations happened. There were thousands of Gendarmes nearby, and military police, even guest police from other countries. I cannot say enough about how well this city was run with so many additional visitors – tourists and athletes. I’m speechless. Everything was just lovely and easy and pretty. And we were kept safe. I’m so grateful. There was such joy and freedom within this wonderfully protected space.
I’ve had so many adventures and created more memories. I hope I’ve captured some of them here. Funny moments like the Gendarme handing me a bottle of water at the Métro station. What? They were very concerned about people – so there were refillable water stations at all the sporting venues for those who brought their own bottles. And when you ordered a drink (water or soda), they poured it into a cup – so no plastic bottles were strewn about. They offered cash returns when you gave back your plastic cup. Kids were running about picking them up or asking you for yours – earning money. They were so encouraged – and so anyone who left their cup on the stadium floor – it was picked up by some ambitious kiddo, earning 2 euros!
Everyone was considerate and lovely and helpful, and I hope we finally dispel the nasty rumor that the French are unkind. For me, they have always been the kindest people I’ve ever encountered. You already know the city is magical for me, so how can I add superlatives to something I already think is « top »? Yet, I could go on and on about it.
Here at the quiet house, the guests are gone, and it’s just me and my buddy cat. I’m also taking care of Nathalie’s plants. I bought her a new basil plant, since the one she left behind went to seed and then died – even after Stéphane carefully pruned it. All other plants are happy and blooming. Trust me, I am NOT anything close to a green thumb, so I’m glad they’re all thriving in spite of me.
Tomorrow, I’ll start planning my last days.
And forgive me, for it is not over… the Paralympics begin now.
LisaH in Paris 