Our first full day in Paris began with a lovely breakfast at Angelina's - an absolute must for hot chocolate lovers! We met David's cousin and accomplished commercial photographer, Ron Gould, there who's been teaching photography here in Paris since mid-June to a group of students from Chicago. His photos are amazing! The girls enjoyed their hot chocolat (more like fondue it's so thick)with croissant, but it was hard to finish it since the cafe is not air conditioned. And Paris is one hot place this week!
In the afternoon we met Ryan and Crystal Demay for a private tour of the Louvre museum. Ryan and Crystal have recently moved from NYC to Chicago (Ryan is joining David's team at work) and happen to be on holiday in Paris at the same time. We enjoyed looking at all the masterpieces again through our children's eyes, who were amazed by Mona Lisa, Venus De Milo and Winged Victory to name a few. Our guide Flora reminded us that it could take up to three years to see every piece in the Louvre! I would to spend a day here alone someday just to take my time, sit on the benches and reflect on the mere expanse of the canvases, the meaning and symbolism woven into the portraits.
Ryan and Crystal also met us for dinner at 110 Taillevent, known for its suggested wine pairings for each course. Standouts included: Lobster salad, Crab parfait, Veal T-Bone and for dessert a chocolate sphere that the waiter poured hot molten chocolate over, melting the sphere to reveal a special raspberry ice cream hidden inside. Such a fun treat!
Au revoir for now!