Paris
Last Week on the Road
My Epic Journey So Far
Today’s Weather Report
Day 81: Paris, the city of love, is playing hard to get, teasing me with a chilly 15.98°C. The deceptive clear sky gave me a false sense of Spring but the wind, blowing at 6.69 m/s, strikes with a cold reality. My gnome cheeks are rosier than ever! A humidity of 66%? My beard feels like it’s been in a steam room! Ah, the life of a travelling gnome, never a dull day. Remember, folks, in gnome life, it’s not the destination, it’s the wind chill!
Paris Strolls, Gnome Regrets!
The most interesting observation on my journey? Definitely the vast difference in architecture as I moved from the quiet suburbs to the bustling heart of Paris. Argenteuil with its charming and quaint houses was a stark contrast to the grandeur of Parisian architecture, with its ornate balconies and ironwork.
I crossed the iconic Seine River, which seemed to whisper, “Fluctuat nec mergitur”, which means “Tossed but not sunk”, the motto of Paris. The Seine, with its gentle waves, seemed to embody the spirit of the city – always moving, always changing, but never losing its essence.
As I walked, a local song kept playing in my head: “Sous le ciel de Paris s’envole une chanson” (Under the sky of Paris, a song flies away). The lyrics seemed so fitting as I watched the city come alive in the morning light.
In other news, my journey stats have been updated! I’ve been on the road for 80 days now and have traveled a total of 2214.6 kilometers! From Boulogne-Billancourt to Pontault-Combault, then Argenteuil, and now finally, Paris, it’s been a thrilling ride! And let’s not forget my last stop, Saint-Denis.
To quote a great French philosopher, Voltaire, “Le travail éloigne de nous trois grands maux : l’ennui, le vice et le besoin” (Work keeps us away from three evils: boredom, vice, and need). I’m not sure if this falls under work or play, but either way, it’s been keeping me away from all three!
Stay tuned for more updates as I continue my journey! Au revoir!
Wandering Paris’s Streets
Gnome’s Petite Parisian Pastiche
Painted en plein air while taking in the sights of Paris.
— Oliver the Gnome, aspiring artist
Paris: Baguettes, Berets & Bohemians!
First, the Notre-Dame Cathedral. It’s not just a piece of architecture, it’s a symbol of France’s rich history. It’s been a silent witness to revolutions, coronations, and wars. Did you know that Victor Hugo wrote “Notre-Dame de Paris” to raise awareness about the cathedral’s decaying state in the 19th century?
Secondly, the Montmartre district. It’s a bohemian paradise perched on a hill, offering panoramic views of Paris. It’s been home to artists like Picasso and Van Gogh. The famous saying, “Je suis dans un état de ‘Van Gogh’ (I’m in a ‘Van Gogh’ state) was coined here. It’s a metaphor for feeling blue, inspired by the legendary artist’s melancholic works.
Paris, je t’aime! Paris, I love you!
Cock-a-doodle Vin!
Bonjour from the city of love, Paris! Here, we’re indulging in a local delicacy, Coq au Vin. Voici comment faire – here’s how to make it.
First, brown a beautiful rooster (or chicken) in a bit of oil. Ajoutez de l’ail et des oignons – add garlic and onions. When they’re golden, pour in burgundy wine until the bird is swimming. Laissez mijoter – let it simmer.
Then, throw in a bouquet garni (thyme, bay, parsley). Finally, add some mushrooms and let the magic happen. After a few hours, you’ll be feasting on a dish that’s as rich and complex as the city itself.
Remember, as the Parisians say, “La vie est trop courte pour boire du mauvais vin” – Life is too short to drink bad wine. Use the good stuff for your Coq au Vin and you won’t regret it. Au revoir!
Parisian Ponderings in Pint-Size
See you tomorrow!
Around the World on Foot, in Many, Many Days 