Finally took the tribe to the Eiffel Tower- on a glorious spring afternoon, skies clear and a spectacular view. Its so impressive, whether we were chasing pigeons underneath or gazing across Paris from the Summit.( I was grateful for the protective wiring, given the attempts made by the 5 yr old to "see" our house ..)

Successful Parisien experience achieved.

Though Im still wondering if the kids has as much fun eating soft serve ice cream and playing hopscotch in the park?

Chateau Thoiry boasts a Safari Park - quite a novelty on Easter Weekend! We queued but no complaining, it was too much fun meeting an ostrich and a camel, beside the car. And driving out of Paris, seeing signs of spring in green fields. Every now and again I might need a break from the urban life.

An atrocious period of absence from The Blog. I think I went into hibernation.. . but its spring in Paris! All those rumours are true.. garden beds blooming, locals smiling, rich green parks and shimmering blue skies. Cafes starting to spill out onto the pavements..etc etc. Dont be envious, its still the domestic version of Paris that holds my attention: but yesterday Madame in the local Boulangerie greeted me like an old friend.. we must be settling!

Farewell to San Francisco in February; Oyster Point and a torrential downpour at the Zoo. Back to Paris in March, a final winter chill.