Wednesday, July 9, 2008

Wednesday, 9 July

Lloyd was at the conference all day, and I was on my own in Paris. I walked over eight miles today.

I took the train to Notre Dame, and felt that was an accomplishment. I attended noon Mass. It was interesting how security herded all the visitors away from the altar prior to Mass and roped off the area. The Mass was, of course, in French. I was able to say the Amens, sing Alleluia, said the Our Father in English while the others said it in French, and shake hands. Still a very blessed experience. I lit candles for each of the children. Eric and Jessica, you are at the altar of "Mother and Child" and at the foot of the cross. Mary Beth, yours is at the altar of Notre-Dame de Pris. Laura, I lit your candle at the altar of St. Therese of the Child Jesus. Darin, for obvious reasons, yours was lit at Joan of Arc.

I ate lunch from street vendors - cherry ice cream and strawberry crepe.

Musee de L'Orangerie is magnificent. There were eight panels of Monet's Water Lilies, with each panel about 25 feet long. I think I've had my Monet fix for awhile. Also saw a Renior that is printed on a tote bag I have.

I accidentally found the US Embassy, but "for security reasons" was not able to take a photo. I'm glad I knew enough to ask, first.

On the walk back to the hotel, the Army did its practice fly over for Bastille Day (which will be Monday). They were very low over the Champs-Elysses. I wished Lloyd was with me!

Laura, Jessica, and Laura, I'm bringing home some macarons from Laduree. That is if they let me through customs with them. Just wait until you try them! Of course, Dad already tried to snitch, but I slapped his hand away.

The sun doesn't go down until after 10 pm. There is so much light in Paris that you can still see the clouds at 2 am.

We're getting up early to pack and go to the airport. See you soon!

1 comment:

Ted and Britt Mikels said...

Mary-sounds like you had a fabulous time. Look forward to seeing some pictures upon your return!
Britt