Arrival

Day 1 August 16, 2012
4 weary souls dropped off at Paris apt. Got the low down on the apt and off to bed we went.  Later out to dinner and exploring school, kids excited to see the Eiffel Tower. Cool to be walking around on a warm night.

Day 2
Still jet lagged but we always feel better when we hit the town.  Explored different areas in the 17th.  Most of the shops around us are closed as owners are on vacation.  Can't wait until Sept to taste neighborhood bakery goods. Luckily there is a great grocery store not too far away that is kind of like a Fred Meyer.  Some quirks noted in the apt like need to flip switch down to turn on, righty tighty rule is opposite.  Toilets are in a separate closet and so it is strange to walk out and go to the shower room to wash hands.  It took me 20 min to figure out all the symbols on washer.  But washer seems to work well.  Also figured out dishwasher and stove.  Kitchen has recently been remodeled with new appliances but feels like old college apt with old pots and pans as few as there are.  Ah well, we'll have to eat out for our gourmet meals.  Kids are doing well. Paige alternates ipad with reading Harry Potter books when we are home. She has a big room with a tiny balcony (wrought iron bars like you picture for Paris), TV and uses the street light for a night light.  Clay has been sleeping a ton (the rest of us are envious) but also has a nice room with TV and lots of closet and play space.

Day 3
Clay woke up after a record 12 hours! The rest of us slept 4 hrs.  Finally made it out the door this afternoon to the Paris beach. They bring in sand to a walkway along the Seine.  They have multiple water stations, misters (kind of like a light shower), stuff for kids, and ice cream!!!  Nice to cool down and stand under a tree for awhile watching all the boats and people go by.  Found an air conditioned mall to hang out and get some bathing suits for the guys.  They have to wear speedo type suits in swimming pools. Then out for dinner at The Hippopotamus.  We thought we were going into an air-conditioned restaurant because the entryway seemed cool but later found it hotter than outside.  Waiter said it doesn't work well.  Major bummer since dinner is never fast in Paris.  Glad to get home and take a cool shower.  Big news for the day....Clay lost his front tooth.  Hoping for a restful night's sleep.

Bonne nuit.
Erin