I am not sure a move back to Paris can be called an adventure, but if discovering our new neighborhood qualifies, then it is a new adventure. We have found every area in Paris, as in many cities, has it’s own distinct character. Our new flat is just off the Arc de Triomphe, the real one, and brings a very different vibe than our place in the 9th. Translation, more tourists and more activity, not in a bad way. We have found that being this close to the Arc can be disruptive, like yesterday when the Pope was in town and the roads were closed down. Reminds me of DC when Dick Cheney was VP he would close Massachusetts Avenue for 45 minutes, not fun. No begrudging the Pope.
We have found our new “hood” has a wonderful array of markets of all kinds, shops and stores that provide a huge offering that we seldom see at home. The change in our shopping habits is a bit of a joke, as we wander out everyday to provision, just this and that. We have tried to refrain from acquiring anything unnecessary , there is very little storage in our compact appartement. We have found the necessities, good cookware, kitchen supplies and storage. Our next move will require a caravan and not just a van. We make it a point to cook most nights. I am learning how to use an electric oven and induction hob, which is a change after cooking on gas for 25 years. Now sure I am a fan, but we have to adjust.
So we have put an offer on a house in Normandy and are working through the process. Interesting, confusing and lengthy. You have 4 agreements before close. The agreement on price, then the offer to buy, then the presale agreement and then the sales agreement, additionally during this process the commune has the right of preemption. This can be up to 60 days where they have the right to buy the property, so as you can see, we are still on hold.
The prospect of a new home is always fun. Exploring what the possibilities can be. We did the Swedish Death Cleaning before we left and only kept the things that we could not replace or meant something, amazing how much we gave away, and hopefully for others to enjoy. Additionally, we had no idea where we would land and a 8 ft couch was not sure to find a home, so we are having fun exploring what might be.
Today we took a fieldtrip to Marche des Puches, one of the largest flea markets in Paris. It is like entering the Medina in Marrakech, as confusing, as wonderful and daunting. There is everything you can imagine, from furniture to art to household items that you want but know you don’t need. As we rounded a corner Jeff saw this statue and we thought it was serendipitous, a Playboy Bunny statue. Given the recent passing of Gloria and the fact she went undercover at the NYC Playboy Club to expose the working conditions, alas I don’t think it will find a home with us.
We are enjoying the beginning of fall as the weather cools and the walks get longer. We have much to explore in Paris and a few trips on the horizon, including one to visit friends in Angeles sur Mer, down on the Med.
We see the horrible storm that is moving through the East Coast and hope all are safe. A bientot