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 Theses are my thoughts and ramblings as I forge my way through this thing they call life. |
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These are my thoughts and ramblings as I forge my way through this thing they call Life. I blog with these groups:     "Blogging Circle of Friends "  [E] 
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Blog City â Day 907 Prompt: "Paper has more patience then people." Anne Frank What are your thoughts on this? I would have to agree that paper has more patience than people because it allows you time to think and collect your thoughts without the pressure of having to respond right away. You can also make changes before anyone has a chance to see what you have written. I find journalling out my thoughts and feelings helps me discover more about myself and lets me know how I really feel about something. The more anxious I am about something, the better it is for me to write it out... it takes my anxiety down a notch and lets me be more clear about what I really want to say.  30 Day Blogging Challenge - September 1 Tossing a prompt out there to help with the transition from camping to the Monthly Challenge with Norb. September is an official contest month and the prompts will come from him unless he designates another. How do you feel about themed blogging? Do you feel you learned a lot and would do it again? Those of you that haven't done it, what do you think, would you try it? I happen to enjoy the themed blogging... at least the ones I have had the privilege of being part of for the last three Augusts at 30 Day Blogging. I find I get a chance to know some people a little better and have fun. This past month was our Virtual European Trip and it was amazing. I learned a ton of stuff about many places in Europe - and now have a list of things I would love to do - a kind of bucket list of things. I enjoyed the research I did and the fun of blogging and mixing in with my blog-mates. The only real downside... is that it is virtual and I spent a great of my August in the basement on the computer instead of outside enjoying the summer that really was.... but that is okay. With the camping trips, I think I spent less time researching and more time reading my fellow bloggers to get to know them. I made up for it today and went to our own Stratford to walk along the river and take in the shops. I had a grand time. In the evening I headed back to Baden to meet my mother and our neighbours for dinner at the local tavern and then headed over to Castle Kilbride for an outdoor concert by the Shenanigans. It was a great time. https://www.reverbnation.com/shananigans 30 Day Blogging Challenge  August 31 - My trip continues.... I took one more day to delve into Londonâs legendary rock music history on this full-day tour. I got on a lovely air conditioned bus and went from âTin Pan Alley,â where the Rolling Stones cut their first record, to the famous Abbey Road zebra crossing. It was a small-group tour of only 16 people - 15 I had never met before.... I missed my 30 Day Blogging mates terribly and I hoped they had safe trips home. It was rather an experience to see all of Londonâs famous rock 'n' roll sites - Abbey Road, Apple HQ, Paul's House, Ringo's House, Jimmy Page's house. It was cool to get in on the insider stories about my favorite musicians from our knowledgeable rock guide. Read more about London Rock Music Tour - London | Viator at: https://www.viator.com/tours/London/London-Rock-Music-Tour/d737-5081ROCKMUSIC?pu... Afterward I took some time to walk and dream. I got an early night as I had booked a flight home for the next morning... I decided not to miss the WDC Birthday Bash - it is not everyday a website celebrates 16 years!!! |
30 Day Blogging Challenge Aug 30th - last day in London...you have a red eye flight this evening home...well.... I know Lyn's a Witchy Woman   has got us booked on a red eye flight back to our respective towns and cities, but I have changed up my ticket and plan to ease back into reality.... after all this weekend is Labour Day weekend and school doesn't resume until Tuesday. Chances are I won't be supplying so I will linger.... besides I have a Music tour I want to explore. Today I wanted to spend with my friends. Lyn has us celebrating more Shakespeare and I am all for it. After all, "with 2016 marking 400 years since Shakespeareâs death, thereâs no time like the present to revisit all of the theater favorites or follow in the footsteps of the iconic playwright." We have stood in Juliet's famous balcony in Verona and explored Hamletâs castle. But now we are in England, the place of his birth. And like all good celebrations, England is celebrating the legacy of its national poet with a host of special events, plays, film screenings and exhibitions. All with a Shakespearean twist. We got to visit famous Stratford-upon-Avon landmarks and walk in William Shakespeareâs footsteps with this âAll Five Housesâ tour. It was a step back in time to the 16th century, when one of Englandâs most famous scribes was alive. We visited Shakespeareâs family homes and gardens. There was such a broad range of exciting activities bringing the bardâs story to life. Our guide was eager to shed light on his life and times. We watched live performances and tested our Shakespearean knowledge. We even met farm animals at Mary Arden's Farm and enjoyed a fun-filled day for all the family. Read more about Shakespeare's Birthplace: 'All 5 Houses' Ticket - Stratford-upon-Avon | Viator at: https://www.viator.com/tours/Stratford-upon-Avon/Shakespeares-Birthplace-All-5-H... Before joining everyone for dinner I moved myself into a hostel - University of Westminster - Alexander Fleming Hall. I get a room like a residence room and that is all I need for the next few days. Simple and clean. I leave my stuff locked up and find my way back to the group. Lyn's a Witchy Woman was keen to keep us on our feet. She booked our dinner as part of a walking tour that had us experiencing the bounty of 'English foods.... though after Spanish and Italian foods, I am not sure if England has any exciting foods. Battered fish? Not a fan.... well I am if you leave off the batter. Though I had some great fish and chips at the Fergus Scottish Festival not too long ago. So I will keep an open mind. We got to feast your senses on the cosmopolitan culinary scene of East London - a 3.5-hour walking tour of the vibrant London district. Our guide was an expert in all things gastronomical. He took us to explore the eclectic neighborhoods of Spitalfields and Shoreditch to discover spots favored by local food-lovers. We got to try the English classic of a bacon sandwich at St John Bread and Wine restaurant; as well as the "complex flavors of Beigel Bake's delectable salt beef bagels". We also got to savor creamy artisan cheese during a tasting session. We strolled the renowned Brick Lane to sample spicy curries and try the traditional British dish, fish and chips, at Poppies restaurant. With all this food I am kind of happy not to be stuck in a plane later with the rest of you..... one good fart and we would throw the plane off course!!! I am going to need a few more days to just walk all this food off. Read more about London East End Food Tour - London | Viator at: https://www.viator.com/tours/London/London-East-End-Food-Tour/d737-6093FOOD?pub=... Lyn has our flights all arranged and I have rescheduled mine. I will surely miss all of you, but I know we will meet again. This has been the best trip ever and I am sad to see the month come to an end... soon reality will bite! I look forward to seeing others on their sites.... I look forward to next year all ready - though I won't rush it. We have a year to grow, learn and experience the world as we know it. Stay happy and keep writing my friends. I watch everyone board their transportation to go and I wave and watch until I am left alone, then I turn and head off toward the hostel I have chosen..... making sure to stop at a cafĂŠ to enjoy a cuppa and a treat and get a little writing done. If you have enjoyed your traveling experience, please feel free to tip your travel service "30-Day Bloggers Group" . It is always a pleasure to serve you. -Lyn 30BC's Crazy Travel Guide and Fivesixer ⎠This is our own Stratford on Avon... in Ontario, Canada - 30 minutes from my home. And yes, it does have the Stratford Festival with Shakespearean plays. |
30 Day Blogging Challenge August 29 - London - Day 3 Lyn's a Witchy Woman had the group booked into the Hop On Hop Off bus for the day. I extended mine for the full three days... nobody said I had to return on the last day of the month! I also decided to defect from the day's adventure a bit because I had found a trip.... A fully guided tour of Warner Bros Studio - London - The Making of Harry Potter. I did not want to miss this opportunity as I am a fan of Harry Potter and all things magical. So I grabbed my wand (yes, it was stored in my secret magical portion of my backpack) and my owl (yes, you have heard the occasional hooting from my room)and headed off for a journey to Hogwarts and beyond. We left just after 9 am and I took a train directly from central London to the studio, where I was greeted by a representative and taken on an immersive journey featuring original sets, props and costumes featured in all eight Harry Potter movies! I got to go to Platform 9 ž and Diagon Alley, Hagridâs Hut and Dumbeldoreâs office. I was quite literally transported directly to J.K. Rowlingâs beloved world of wizardry. I got to hear set secrets and behind-the-scene facts I got to see sets and props from all eight of the Harry Potter films, including the Great Hall, the Hogwarts Express and Eeylops Owl Emporium! I got to enjoy a taste of Butterbeer - really very yummy! When the tour was completed at about 1:30, I got to stay as long as I wanted and got priority re-entry into the studio after I headed out to grab a bit of lunch. I also made sure tto buy some Harry Potter memorabilia. You know I got a Gryffindor Scarf and a Polo shirt! The perfect day... I almost hated to head back to London, but I was missing the gang and tonight was a pub crawl. I did not want to miss that. Read more about Fully Guided Tour of Warner Bros Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter - London | Viator at: https://www.viator.com/tours/London/Fully-Guided-Tour-Warner-Bros-Studio-Tour-Lo... https://www.wbstudiotour.co.uk/ Once I returned back to London, I had some time on the Hop On Hop Off bus to explore - I went to Covent Garden to shop.... gotta get some back to school stationery - Kikki.K (http://www.kikki-k.com/) https://www.coventgarden.london/shopping ...but I also made sure to make it to Piccadilly Circus to meet the group for the pub crawl at 7:30 pm. The next seven hours were a blast! We partied into the early hours on this fun pub crawl of central London and got to experience the cityâs legendary nightlife. We had free skip-the-line entry to five bars and nightclubs. We got five free shots and exclusive drink discounts all night long. Thereâs a professional photographer on hand to capture the nightâs most memorable moments, but I made myself scarce when he showed up. The night kicked off at Piccadilly Institute â a bit of a schizophrenic giant of a club with its multiple themed rooms and discounted drinks. Our guide was waiting for us right at the door - what a great job! Once we got our wristbands and first free shot token, we went inside to meet the other crawlers. Most of the groups was our crew but there were a few others. It was great to meet lots of new people and party until the early hours. Our guide introduced us all. The next place was Bar Soho on Old Compton Street, which is right in the middle of the diverse and celebrated area of Soho. The short walk there takes you along Shaftesbury Avenue and right past all the huge West End theatres. What sights. The air was abuzz with excitement. Then we headed off to the bars and clubs of Leicester Square, which is without a doubt the epicentre of London nightlife! The majority of bars and clubs in London charge heavy admission prices, but we were able to do the pub crawl without having to pay those exorbitant fees.... plus we got a free shot at each venue and discounted drinks... that is the way to do it. The best thing was the people watching! Read more about Pub Crawl of Central London - London | Viator at: https://www.viator.com/tours/London/Pub-Crawl-of-Central-London/d737-9075P1?pub=... https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Piccadilly_Circus_Dawn_BLS.jpg |
30 Day Blogging Challenge August 28 - London â Day 2 Lyn's a Witchy Woman remembered how much Princess Megan Rose  loves Jane Austin.... and I do too! She had us booked for a day long adventure into the rurals of England which includes a visit to Jane Austen's house. We also got to enjoy the delights of Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and the towns of Lacock and Bath. Our began very early, as the tour was scheduled to leave Victoria Coach Station at 7:45 am. It was lovely to be in an air conditioned coach and our guide was very informative. Windsor Castle, the worldâs oldest occupied castle, is still used by Queen Elizabeth II and the royal family. We got to see St Georgeâs Chapel and the State Apartments, then we continued to Stonehenge, Europeâs best-known prehistoric monument. It was awesome... though we were not able to get too close. I am sure there are some of our group that would only have been too happy to climb up and around them. You know who you are.... and I am one too. Afterward we got to enjoy a traditional pub lunch in medieval Lacock village. It was really good food and the village was quaint and picturesque. It is considered one of Englandâs prettiest spots. The 13th-century village has starred in period TV drama adaptations such as Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, as well as movies such as Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone! Both of those are favourites of mine! We headed into The George Inn - a welcoming, 14th-century pub, and savor a delicious, traditional English lunch. Then it was on to the spa city of Bath. It is famous for its honey-colored Georgian architecture and Roman baths. We did not return to London until 8:30 pm. Read more about Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, Bath, Including Pub Lunch in Medieval Village of Lacock - London | Viator at: https://www.viator.com/tours/London/Stonehenge-Windsor-Castle-Bath-and-Medieval-... Most of the group headed off to the Faulty Towers Dining Experience, but I was more interested in seeing something different... I managed to get tickets to see Les Miserables. I had never gotten to see it before, but I love the music. I got wonderful seats. https://www.viator.com/tours/London/Les-Miserables-Theater-Show/d737-3517LONLES I was quite tired afterward so I headed back to the hotel to take a soothing bath and just relax. |
30 Day Blogging Challenge Aug 27th London, England In the morning we took a 2 hour and 19 minute train ride from Paris to London. Sad to go. Lyn's a Witchy Woman had us booked into The Nadler Soho â another richly posh boutique hotel with a mere 78 rooms. It is the heart of Londonâs city center. We are in the heart of the Soho district which is said to be the most cosmopolitan and eccentric part of London. http://www.thenadler.com/soho.shtml Lyn had a big day planned for usâŚ. and although I was cool with seeing Buckingham Palace, I was not so inclined to see Parliament. Westminster Abbey was a definite⌠I decided to tag along for the palace tour, but then go off on my own for the rest of the day. Defection, I know, but there are just some things I did not want to miss and though I have never been to England before, my mother has and she has seen these sights and I have heard her talesâŚ. I wanted to see stuff she had not necessarily talked aboutâŚ. And if I did, I saw it at my own pace. My mother is just this side of a Royals fanatic so she would happy to know we were beginning our day at Buckingham Palace. We got to delve into Londonâs rich royal heritage for two and a half hours. We also got to see the changing of the Guard Ceremony and marvel at the traditional Changing of the Guard performance, which involves meticulously dressed soldiers marching to the rhythm of military drums. We got to enter the opulent State Rooms of Buckingham Palace. We saw lavish chambers that are only available to see for two months of the year. We also got to hear about the history of the British monarchy. We got to wander through St Jamesâs Park. Read more about Buckingham Palace Tour Including Changing of the Guard Ceremony - London | Viator at: https://www.viator.com/tours/London/Buckingham-Palace-Tour-Including-Changing-of... The rest of the group headed off for another 4 hour tour of Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament. I followed the group around Westminster Abbey. My mother always raved about this church and I wanted to see it for myselfâŚ. I loved the gothic grandeur of the place. It was great to walk the aisle that Princess Diana walked.... and then Katherine and William. We got to stroll through the cloisters and see College Garden, thought to be the oldest garden in England. It was interesting to see the graves of Dickens, Hardy and other famous writers. When everyone wandered over to the Houses of Parliaments, I ditched the tour. Our Canadian system is similar to thisâŚ. and I wanted to catch the Hop On Hop Off Tour and make my own leisurely way around London and its famous sights. London hop on hop off bus tour â seeing the city from the top of an open-top sightseeing bus. Read more about Big Bus London Hop-On Hop-Off Tour - London | Viator at: https://www.viator.com/tours/London/Big-Bus-London-Hop-On-Hop-Off-Tour/d737-6506... Wanting to see as much as possible, I still caught up with the group for dinner at Bailey's Fish and Chips. I decided to join the rest of the group who were heading off to see the Kinky Boots Theatre Show. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g186338-d2719908-Reviews-Baileys_F... https://www.viator.com/tours/London/Kinky-Boots-Theatre-Show-in-London/d737-3517... Kinky Boots is a musical playing at the Adelphi Theatre in London. It is based on real-life events. It was a high-energy, uplifting show telling the story of Northampton shoe factory owner Charlie Price, who with his inspirational sidekick, cabaret performer Lola; transforms the fortunes of his struggling business by catering for drag queens who want sparkling, thigh-high stiletto boots. It featured a fun and feisty Grammy- and Tony-winning score by pop icon Cyndi Lauper â who I happen to really like, and together with sensational performances and staging, this uproarious show was a glorious, glamorous got-to-see while weâre in London. I was caught up in the hilarious plot and the amazing choreography by two-time Tony-winning Jerry Mitchell. |
30 Day Blogging Challenge Aug 26th Paris Happy 60th Birthday to our wonderful tour guide!!!! I make sure I wish Lyn's a Witchy Woman a very happy birthday... I still canât believe she is sixty! I would say a spicy 40, at most! A bunch of the group is going to do a movie tour. I am interested in hearing about it, but it's not for me, I am more interested in walking the Paris of writers... so I make my own way.... La Place Contrascarpe I found my way to Rue Moufftard, a street bustling in the early morning shuffle of both Parisians and tourist alike hunting for their first croissant and espresso of the day. At the peak of this street youâll find La Contrascarpe, a bubbling fountain encircled by quiet cafes. Described as the âcesspool of Rue Moufftard,â itâs not hard to imagine young writers and artist quietly staring into their cups while scribbling their thoughts. I made sure to take some time to get a coffee and croissant and write here. Having signed on to a Literary Walking Tour I went to meet my small group and begin the full adventure... https://www.localers.com/our-tours-in-Paris/paris-literature-tour?gclid=CjwKEAjw... âLĂ , tout n'est qu'ordre et beautĂŠ, luxe, calme et voluptĂŠ.â "There all is order and beauty, luxury, peace, and pleasure." Les Fleurs du Mal â Charles Baudelaire "What bookworm wouldnât give just about anything to follow in the steps of their literary heroes? For instance, comparing the description of the HĂ´tel de Lazun, evoked by Baudelaire above, with the actual structure provides an insight into the workings of his artistic mind and his unique worldview. Paris is rife with opportunities for such experiences. The city has lured writers and poets, such as Ernest Hemingway, for example, for centuries. Today you can still walk in the footsteps of many a literary genius. All you need is someone to show you where to go." Our guide was an expert in French literature and is also head over heals in love with the city. I was taken back in time to 'seek out those mythic spots where the pulse of these geniuses beats on.' This tour covered the Romantics of the 19th century, the Lost Generation between the wars, and the Beat Generation of the 1950s and 60s. My favourite of course is the Lost Generation - Hemingway. The Rendez-vous was at Place Colette around 1800, where our guideâs first mission was to catapult you a few centuries back in time by re-constructing the world around you as great writers like Balzac would have experienced it. Our guide to stripped the Carrousel du Louvre down to its state before the Haussmannian reconstructionsâback to when it was the epicenter of bohemian life in Paris. Then we followed the Seine to the Ăle de la CitĂŠ, where big names such as Anatole France found many of their inspirations. We continued over to the Rive Gauche the intellectual nerve center of Paris and stomping ground of Lost Generation personalities such as Gertrude Stein, Ernest Hemingway, and Scott F. Fitzgerald. After visiting Oscar Wildeâs place of death, we passed by the Beat Hotelâthe famous hangout of Beat Generation writers such as William Burroughs and Allen Ginsberg. We continued on to the Odeon area, where Sylvia Beach founded her legendary bookstore and artistic paradise, Shakespeare and Co. The shop no longer exists. However, the spirit of regulars such as James Joyce, Paul ValĂŠry, and AndrĂŠ Gide still lingers in this cozy cave of literature. On your way out of Shakespeare and Co., we were plunged into the worlds of Baudelaire and Flaubert as we followed the meandering streets and alleys to the HĂ´tel de Lauzun on the Ăle St. Louis. It is this structure that moved Baudelaire to write LâInvitation au Voyage. We walked about 4 km and I still wasn't done. I made sure to see Hemingway & Hadleyâs Apartment - the third floor of number 47 Rue Cardinale Lemoine. It is pretty unassuming - the only clue we even had to base this on (besides Hemingwayâs book) was a little plaque on the side of the house. Just around the corner I found a little tavern, which Hemingway stayed in to write when he felt overwhelmed or unfocused at home - I take a break for some food, drink and a little more writing. I continued on and taking a sharp right onto Boulevard Saint Michel. I passed many shops, bookstores and cute cafes. Off a bit and squeezed and leaning in all angles, stands one of my most favorite stores in all of Paris, Shakespeare & Company. The original bookstore was run by Sylvia Beach and it is mentioned quite a lot in âA Moveable Feast,â but its legacy continues to give a unique and safe space for English speaking customers to read and relax. There are still pianos, typewriters and beds for those feeling adventurous to stay there a while. This is my heaven.. I buy a few more books - some new... old authors, I've never had the priveledge of reading and then sit at the cafe to write for awhile. When I need to stretch my legs, I make my way through the Latin Quarter on the Left Bank to Luxembourg Gardens. Afterwards, I wandered down the stone walls of the Siene to find some vintage Parisian prints and second hand books stored in the aged green metal boxes cemented to the stone walls of the Seine. I scored some vintage postcards that I absolutely love! I won't send these ones - they are too precious. I also found my way to Jardin Du Luxembourg. This was a favorite destination between Hemingway's apartment and Gertrude Steinâs apartment. It is just lovely! I could not resist finding a spot to just sit and take it all in - writing more, watching the people.... sigh.... I sat in the shade of a huge oak tree, surrounded by marble statues and manicured gardens. I also wandered to where Gertrude Stein lived. I made sure to go to Les Deux Magots for my dinner and more writing and people watching. It is a well visited cafe of artists, writers and philosophers of the 1920âs, including our man Hemingway himself (as well as Picasso and Sartre, to name a few others). This little cafe serves an amazing Croquette Madam. It was seriously good. The ambience was fabulous.... I almost did not want to leave. http://www.roamandgolightly.com/blog/a-walk-with-hemingway-touring-pariss-latin-... What to do with the rest of my night? Lyn had said we would not be leaving until 9am so we could celebrate our last night in Paris... I did not want to miss a moment. |
30 Day Blogging Challenge Aug 25th Paris I slept well last night. I ambled down early to find out Lyn's a Witchy Woman had made plans for us to go to another castle. We must be at the airport for our 35 minute helicopter ride to the Chateau de Vaux-le-Vicomte at 10 am. This was a four hour trip and at 2:30 pm we returned to our hotel by limousine. I was not sure about another ornate castle tour, but the views from the helicopter were amazing and well worth the trip. This place is another of France's top attractions. We got to fly over Paris and take in the views of the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral. When we arrived we got to enjoy a Champagne reception that include flukes of Champagne and lovely wee macarons - which are comprised of two flavored meringue biscuits with a ganache, buttercream or jam filling â is one of the most popular pastries in France - not to be mistaken for Macaroons which are chocolate and coconut - which I personally like much better. There were still very good. Then we got our headsets for the audio tour and we were off to explore the 360° view around the estate from the dome which is 25 meters high, then explored the grand suites, hallways and gardens at our leisure. We even got to use a golf cart to view the gardens. The helicopter ride was the best part of this trip. We got to see all of Paris the Eiffel Tower, Note Dame, Palace of Versailles. I will have to say I have had my fill of castles... I am quite ready to just walk and explore Paris - amble where Hemingway ambled. Sit in cafĂŠs and just write. I know that may sound boring but I am ready for it. https://www.viator.com/tours/Paris/Helicopter-Tour-to-Chateau-de-Vaux-le-Vicomte... I grabbed a quick bite, if that's possible in Paris and headed off for a 2 hour tour of the Paris Catacombs. I learned why the bones of more than six million people were deposited under the city in a complex maze of tunnels that you definitely need a guide to navigate. It was truly interesting to venture down into the depths of the city. Read more about Skip The Line Paris Catacombs Tour - Paris | Viator at: https://www.viator.com/tours/Paris/Skip-The-Line-Paris-Catacombs-Tour/d479-6159C... When I emerged I decided to check out a lovely cafĂŠ before rejoining my group at 9 pm for the Scary part of Paris tour. At nine o'clock we all ventured into the dark side of Paris. We got to spend 2 hours visiting the city's more sinister spots. We got to delve into the eerie mysteries of the City of Light,. We strolled the serpentine streets in search of spectres and spooks. We strayed from the beaten path with our guide - a masterful story teller. We discovered many unfamiliar facts about the captivating capital as you venture to sites of reputed haunting. We gained insights into the horrible history of the city when we visited mystery-shrouded sites like the Place de la Vert Gallant and the Palais du Justice. We got to see the Hotel de Concierge, where Marie Antoinette was once imprisoned And we got to see the old Place du Greve, where many were tortured and killed. We also saw the Place de la Vert Gallant St Germain de Auxerrois La Fontaine de la Croix du Trahoir Rue de la Ferronnerie Square of the Innocents The Rat Trap Shop (as seen in the movie Ratatouille)Tour St JacquesLa Fontaine du PalmierThe River SeineThe ConciergerieIle de la CitĂŠPalais du JusticeHotel DieuHotel de Ville. Read more about Ghosts, Mysteries and Legends Night Walking Tour of Paris - Paris | Viator at: https://www.viator.com/tours/Paris/Ghosts-Mysteries-and-Legends-Night-Walking-To... Overall, I would say today was a day of gathering good story material. I will pack it away for future tales - both opulent and terrifying! |
30 Day Blogging Challenge Aug. 24th Paris Today {user:e;usive4lyn} had us heading to Versailles for a bike tour. Normally, I would not be interested in this, but since the Outlander Series did the second Diana Gabaldon book which takes place in France - some of it at Versailles - I am curious. I want to be able to walk where those actors walked as they brought Jamie and Claire's story to life. I was up at a decent hour, though for those that did some extra stuff last night it may be seem pretty early. Our tour started at 9 am and goes until 6 pm. We walked to the RER train station and took the 30-minute trip by train to Versailles. Once there we got our bikes at an office just 5 minutes from the Palace of Versailles, our guide then took us to visit the Versailles' village market to buy baguettes, cheese, ham, wine and some fruit. He told us we would be having our picnic lunch in Versailles' gardens. I enjoyed picking out my assortment of foods and even splurged on a bottle of French wine - a white. Then we were off to bike through the gardens behind Versailles palace. The bikes allowed us to leave much of the tourists on foot behind - they will only a small fraction of the palace gardens. We will see it all! The Versailles' gardens and forests are a crisscrossed network of trails and tree-lined paths. The views were amazing and I was glad I had gotten a new card for my camera so that I could take as many pictures as I wanted. I made sure to snap shots of my friends - Fivesixer  and Kit  posed for me in an almost kiss before they started giggling. I think they both enjoyed their wine as much as I did. I made sure to get our guide, Francois as well... Jellyfish  and SB Musing  played it up by planting kisses on his cheeks at the same time. He seemed to love the attention. I got Prosperous Snow celebrating  to take my picture with him... Elycia Lee ⎠Friday 13  got in that one as well and we did the same as the other ladies, kissing his cheeks at the same time. He swooned with all the attention. Arriving at the far end of the Grand Canal, you'll settle down for a picnic in the exact spot where Louis XIV, XV and XVI ate in order to marvel at their palace. Relax on the grass in peace where only your cycling group will be able to easily reach this end of the Grand Canal. I feasted and enjoyed my wine - I was beginning to feel a little tipsy, so I laid back and closed my eyes I could almost see myself back in that time. Apparently, the wine flowed very well and that left many of us a little unstable on our bikes. I chose to walk mine for awhile which gave me a chance to see and get the sense of how truly huge this place really is. Anyone walking would never get back this far. Lyn's a Witchy Woman and Prosperous Snow celebrating walked along with me. We laughed at some of the others who tried to make a go of it. SB Musing and andy almost toppled over but saved themselves in time. Back at the palace we got an unforgettable view into the lives of the French monarchy before their removal from power by the Revolution in 1789. We got to visit the Hall of Mirrors (site of the treaty ending World War I), the King's State Apartments and the amazing King's Chapel. I was floating by the time we left to return to Paris via RER train. The place was so grand and opulent. https://www.tripadvisor.com/AttractionProductDetail?product=3588VERSA&d=1886... Tonight we're doing the Eiffel Tower. It should be interesting to see the City of Light flood with its glow as the evening descends as we are perched high up, overlooking the whole city. I have to agree with {user;elusive4lyn} that there couldn't be a better way to see the city of lights than by night. We met a few streets away from the Eiffel Tower and avoided waiting in the line. Lyn has gotten us pre-booked, skip-the-line tickets which grants us priority access to the Eiffel Tower elevator, so we got to go straight up to the second level after learning about the building's fascinating history. We got to hear the story of the man behind the Tower, Gustave Eiffel, and learn about the wonders behind this architectural and engineering feat as we viewed it up close. We got to hear the details of the Worldâs Fair of 1889, the year the tower was built. The first level offers a great cinematic theater where you can see exclusive video of the towerâs storied 120-plus-year history. It also featured one of the original spiral staircases that Gustave himself used daily to reach his office on the top level. On the second level, our guide, Henri gave us plenty of time to take in the best views that Paris has to offer. There were two tiers on the second level, plenty of space to hear Henri as he explained the countless stunts and anecdotes from the towerâs past. There were some crazy exploits (like planes flying underneath the tower) and the towerâs role in everything from world wars to Hollywood movies. It was a great tour, but it reminded me a little of the stuff I have seen at Niagara Falls - all the history and crazy stunts. Definitely interesting though. When our tour finished, I was happy to know our time on the Eiffel Tower didnât end. Our ticket included access to the first level and the summit of the tower too. I had to go to the summit. You can't do this and not go all the way... even if the heights were a little daunting. At the top I purchased a glass of Champagne to celebrate my making it and got to enjoy it while I stared out over the City of Light. I was speechless. The view is AMAZING! https://www.tripadvisor.com/AttractionProductDetail?product=3588EIFFELTOWER&... Lyn had made several suggestions for gaming clubs here in Paris and although I had a great time doing them in Hamburg, I am more excited about tracking my way over to the Shakespeare and Co. Bookshop... and the cafĂŠ that they now have. I planned to stay until close - which is 11 pm. I have wanted to go here the moment I knew we were coming to Paris. If I have my way, I will be back before I go. Shakespeare and Co. âThe original Shakespeare & Co, run by Sylvia Beach and beloved of Hemingway and his ilk, closed in the 1940s during the occupation of Paris (the site at 12 Rue de lâOdĂŠon bears a plaque). In 1951, wandering spirit George Whitman opened Le Mistral at 37 Rue de la BĂťcherie, re-naming it in 1964 in homage to Beachâs legacy (he also named his daughter after her). But the back history hardly matters now â George, who passed away in 2011 aged 98, turned the shop into something entirely unique and magical. A gathering place, source of inspiration and often a bed for beat generation bohemians, writers, travellers and readers for over 60 years, Shakespeare & Company has hosted thousands of âtumbleweedsâ â volunteer helpers who sleep in the shop â and featured in numerous films, books and memoirs. The sprawling site includes a large used and antiquarian section, while the main store is a heavenly labyrinth of book-lined passages, alcoves and reading rooms full of secret corners, an unmissable destination for bibliophiles the world over. Sylvia Whitman now runs the store with as much charm as â if less eccentricity than â her father, launching an biennial literary festival and maintaining a strong focus on events and readings.â This kind of shop is heaven to me. I read the book Time Was Soft There by Jeremy Mercer this summer. It is about his time staying at the bookshop. How I dream of doing the same. The Cafe: "A cosy, busy spot full of literary winks and nudges. There are literary winks and nudges a-plenty at this cosy spot, a 2015 addition to the celebrated Shakespeare and Company bookshop. The shelves are stocked with cookbooks, literary classics and second-hand novels, a loaf of Catcher in the Rye bread sits on the counter while a lattice-topped Love and Squalor fruit pie nudges up against a more prosaic lemon tart. At teatime â wait for it â Proustâs madeleines are warm from the oven. The short menu of soup, salads and sandwiches (âŹ5.50 to âŹ9.50) has been put together by the good folk at Bobâs Bake Shop: expect home-made bagels, smoothies and juices (âŹ4 to âŹ6.50), Postcard Teas and CafĂŠ Lomi coffees (âŹ2.50 to âŹ4.50), and tasty vegetarian and vegan options, alongside sweet treats (âŹ2.50 to âŹ5) including good olâ American desserts such as pecan pie, and healthy cups of gluten-free crumble and chia pudding. A small cooler holds locally brewed Deck & Donohue craft beers and Sassy ciders from Normandy; on a blustery day, the hand-written specials board listed a home-made hot ginger lemonade. Our lunch came served on tray liners printed with the Proust Questionnaire â (â1. What is your present state of mind?â Hungry.) Our simple bagel sandwiches (kale pesto, avocado, alfalfa sprouts and carrot on the one had, thick slices of comtĂŠ and honey mustard on the other) (âŹ8) were well put together, and toasted on request. Afterwards baked cheesecake, (âŹ5) a brownie (âŹ3.50) and slick espressos. Itâs not quite a place for lingering in, given the near-constant queue of customers angling for one of the few small tables inside. But on warmer days, the large sharing tables on the front terrace can welcome plenty of al fresco drinkers and diners. BY: M. ASTELLA SAW" I went back to the hotel afterward still buzzing with the atmosphere of the place. |
Blog City â Day 898 Prompt: Do you think being grateful for what we have and accepting things as they are can be in conflict with our ambition and our working toward making things better? I think being grateful for what you have and accepting things as they are.... right now, is the way to live. Accepting things to stay that way is not. Gratitude is should be a daily practice. Accepting the here and now, gives you peace in that place, but it is also important to remember things never stay the same. âThis too shall passâ is the way of life. Life is dynamic, every changing. We donât settle for where we are, we accept the current place and are grateful for that moment and what it can teach us, then we stretch ourselves to reach the next level. I donât see it as a conflict with our ambitions or working toward making things better. It is a matter of attitude. Acceptance is not defeat, unless that person sees it that way. Acceptance and gratitude walk hand in hand; appreciating the movement forward and building on that advancement. Always strive for more, for greatness and always appreciate and be grateful for each little things that moves you along that path. |
30 Day Blogging Challenge Day 23 - Paris, France WooHoo! Paris, at last! Can you tell I am excited? I am so glad I got to bed at a reasonable time last night because I am dancing as we get ready to head to Paris! I quite literally buzzed the whole three and a half hour train ride to Paris. Home to the expatriates - Hemingway, Fitzgerald, even our Morley Callaghan (That Summer In Paris), Gertrude Stein, Sylvia Beach, James Joyce.... and so many others. It is going to be such a Moveable Feast! Lyn's a Witchy Woman has us staying at Four Seasons Hotel George V Paris, She'd been told this hotel is superb and she twisted some arms to get us in here. Can you say 'opulence' drips from this place. We are in the 8th arrondissement of the city with a stunning view of Arc de Triumphe. http://www.fourseasons.com/paris/landing_3/?source=taparisblhotel We have 4 days in Paris.... oh, will it be enough? I hope so. I am itching to go to the Shakespeare and Company bookshop.... but I will hold off as Lyn has us going to the Louvre Museum. This place is amazing! We take a small group walking tour of the Louvre Museum in Paris. We also get to skip the line so that we can explore the collection of paintings, sculpture, and architecture with an expert local guide. It was only our group in our tour. This tour was specifically designed to highlight the most famous works of the Louvre Museum. Entering the Louvre through the original Medieval structure from the 12th century, join your guide on a journey from one breathtaking gallery to the next as you travel through time visiting works from 450 BCE through to the 1800s. The Louvre hosts over 35,000 pieces of artwork spanning over 60,000 square meters of exhibition space. On this walking Tour we got to see: â˘Sully Wing â˘Roman Sculpture Hall â˘Venus de Milo â˘Frieze of the Parthenon â˘Etruscan Artifacts â˘Winged Victory of Samothrace â˘The Apollo Gallery (crowns of Louis XV and Napoleon) â˘Italian Renaissance Wing (DaVinciâs Madonna on the Rocks and Mona Lisa) â˘French Wing (Davidâs Coronation of Napoleon; Delacroixâs Victory Leading the People) â˘Michelangeloâs Slaves â˘Canovaâs Psyche and Cupid Once our official tour is over I stay and just soak it all in. If there is only one art gallery to get to in Europe... this would be it. Eventually my stomach claimed mutiny if I did not satisfy it soon, so I found one of the many cafĂŠs within the building to go to. https://www.tripadvisor.com/AttractionProductDetail?product=3731LOUVRE&d=188... http://www.louvre.fr/en This evening we are in for a huge treat. Off to the 7th arrondissement because we've got VIP tickets for the Moulin Rouge experience with exclusive seating on a private balcony. We were able to skip-the-line into the Moulin Rouge. We got to sip on Champagne before our 4-course French dinner which is also accompanied by wine. We got to watch the show from a private balcony with only 24 VIP seats. We enjoyed unobstructed views of the fabulous Moulin Rouge costumes, dancing and sets. We even received a Macaron bag and a chocolate box. We got to enjoy such specialties as duck fois gras, sea bass fillet with a mushroom sauce and a typically delectable French dessert. I am glad I walked around a lot today! At 9pm, the spectacular Moulin Rouge show began. This legendary French cabaret was made famous by the cancan and the paintings of Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, and since it opened in 1889 at the beginning of the Belle Epoque, the Moulin Rouge has captivated audiences with its extravagant, often risquĂŠ performances. Moulin Rouge's current revue â âFĂŠerieâ â features a troupe of 100 artists, including 60 legendary âDoriss Girls,â dressed in spectacular costumes of feathers, rhinestones and sequins. The sumptuous sets and vibrant lights of âFĂŠerieâ provide a colorful backdrop for brilliantly choreographed performances on moving staircases, in a gigantic aquarium, on swings and in garden settings. https://www.tripadvisor.com/AttractionProductDetail?product=5022MOULINVIP&d=... It was after eleven when we ventured back out to the street. I made sure to get another photo of the place - now blazing in its night glory. I convinced a few of the gang to head over to the Le Chat Noir 1881 - a cafĂŠ with a guy playing acoustic guitar and singing lovely French songs. The hours are from 7 am to 6 am! Who needs sleep! Well, we don't stay too late, but it is nice to soak up the atmosphere and people watch as we enjoy a nip of more wine and yummy snacks. https://www.facebook.com/leChatNoir1881#_=_ https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Restaurant_Review-g187147-d5503450-Reviews-Le_Chat_no... |
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