Today is the first day of school for our kids. I write this blog as I sit at home, not really sure what else to do with myself! The kids have been on holidays for a full two months now and I think they are ready for a regular routine to commence, albeit in a foreign language. They have been outstanding young people during their break, especially considering the distraction of packing and unpacking, the disruption of being out of their comfort zone and the distress of losing their grandpa.

The past week has been a “reality check” in many ways. It seems that being in Paris doesn’t protect you from some of the everyday hassles, like:

• head lice, which I think we imported from Australia! Bessie and I were itchy before we left but we thought some mozzies had bitten our necks. I get itchy again just typing these words. We should have been fumigated at the airport upon arrival! Richard was the only one who didn’t have any- I think their feet would have stuck in all the product he uses and they wouldn’t have been able to move (much like the strands of his hair).
• lots of laundry, including pillow cases, beanies, towels and anything that a little nit might like. Plus the usual washing. Many times last week as I folded socks and undies, I lamented that that the only thing thing that seemed different for me was the view out of the window.
• blocked drains in the kitchen sink and a dishwasher that doesn’t work well
• a credit card bill that is peaking way too early! Last night for an easy dinner we had a burger, fries and a water each (think “Grill’d but not quite as yummy) and the bill came to 77 euros.

It’s not all bad though! Far from it! We managed to get out and about at least once every day for a long walk or to buy clothes for school or to find a park to play in or to go sightseeing or to try a new restaurant. These times have been just wonderful.

Richard starts work in the next few days which will be exciting and scary for him no doubt.

Thanks for reading this blog and for your emails and messages. Lots of love to you all. xxxooo

 

 

Ready for school!

My yoghurt cake (first French thing I’ve made here)

Lunch at the local hot dog joint (dangerously good hot dogs!)

Puppet show

Strolling down the Champs-Élysées

At the local park

Our dinner in memory of Tom

The girls at the local park

Baguettes for lunch

A stunning space in Parc de Floral

Bessie writing to friends

Sacré-Coeur

Galeries Lafayette

Richard relaxing

Arc de Triomphe