Paris ... vous nous manquez déjà

Oh, dear, it's over ... *sob*

It has made our hearts glad to reconnect with the galeries, the parcs, the stores, the streets that we love in Paris; to catch up over un café ou champagne with our Parisien amis; to breathe the street view from our appartement as Paris awakes, or watch the lights click on along the street in the evening.

We have loved our morning croissant et café at L'étoile du berger ... especially the young men and women working there who greet every customer with a bonjour and a huge smile, who take time to wrap each item with care, who never hurry the interaction with the customer ... who always take time to confirm or correct my French.  Because that's what matters ... the interaction.

In the apartment building where we're staying, there are two apartments on our floor.  We have met the neighbours briefly outside our doors, or waiting for the tiny cupboard masquerading as a lift to arrive, on a number of occasions.  They have always spoken French and only repeated in, or reverted to English when we have had trouble keeping up.  Their patience, warmth, and offers of restaurant recommendations have made us feel very welcome.

I will miss our burgundy and tessellated-tile entry hall every day, but it's stamped in my memory!  So, Paris, although the distance between us will be great, my memories are vivid and I will be able to close my eyes and see you at any moment I choose ...