Paris Dispatch – 10/24/11

I’m both sad to have our holiday come to an end — and eager to return to a routine that includes lots of meat and vegetables. I have fully taken advantage of all of my deposits in the good health bank and my withdrawals from that account are close to maxing out. We’ve had so many once-in-a-lifetime eating experiences in the last few days, that each one needs its own blog post, so I’ll be confessing my indulgences when I’m back at home base.

Yesterday, we spent almost the whole day lying in the park at the foot of the Eiffel Tower: a picnic; brilliant sunshine; temps in the mid-60s; an a cappella choir of little boys singing “The Sound of Music” and “Yellow Submarine;” couples and groups of friends sprawled out on the grass around us; in the distance, a marching band (highlights: “99 Red Balloons,””Gangsters Paradise,” and “I Was Made For Loving You” by KISS.) This was our view of the Eiffel Tower from our reclining position on the grass.

Here are a few more touristy snaps from the past few days. Even though gorgeous photos of these landmarks are just a few clicks away online, I can’t resist taking pics of my own.

Sacre Coeur…

Moulin Rouge…

Notre Dame de Paris…

After three weeks of walking, exploring, adventuring, eating, and drinking, we still feel like this:

But also like this:

My next communiqué will be from Austin, Texas, and will probably include a Smupdate and cookbook news. (Kathleen has been working fast and furious on the design, and it looks beautiful!) Until then, bonne journée.