Happy Happy New Year. It is around 2:00 pm in California - and 11:00 pm here. No, I am not out in the streets of Paris whooping it in. Truth is, even if the family was healthy right now - I have to admit - it is not my style. Well, it WAS my style in days long ago my dear Mom is saying as she is reading this blog :). But today? I am in my flannel jammies, Frank, Tessa and Julianna are all sleeping... and I am checking in with you all :).
I have been having a hard time sleeping at night due to Tessa and Frank being sick. And found myself just waking up at 10:30 or so this morning - Frank and everyone but Tessa had gone out to breakfast at the American Dinner in Paris. Tessa and I hung out a bit - she was still not doing very well.
Frank brought us back breakfast and Miss Tessa was happy to have pancakes and whip cream :).
Julianna and I headed out to do some shopping. Oh boy!
We went to the Bon Marche and realized it was a little high ticket for us (I had my one and only splurge the other day!) We also went to the La Octaine which was fabulous...but the neatest place I went? This Grocery store (I hate to even call it that) next to Bon Marche - OMG... I could have spent HOURS there... it was utterly amazing.
We headed back on the Metro to drop the bags and to press on shopping. :) We went to the local shops and were able to pick up the gifts I had wanted to get.
Back to the house again - The girls both got themselves lovely rings with the money they brought with them. I was happy to see them purchase something that could last them - rather then 100 cheap things. I hope they hold onto them and remember the trip to Paris. Poor Tessa - she did not want to come and really did not experience much but the inside of the apartment!
We went out for a NYE dinner at a fabulous little Chinese place that was recommended to me off the travel board. Wow! Is all I can say - the meals were around 6.50 E and it was amazing food! I do not think I have ever had better Chinese food (seriously). Tessa DID join us - and did okay through dinner but was fading by the end of it.
Anthony and Max of course headed out on the town - they want to be in the thick of it as any 18 year old would want to be. I pray they are safe!
As I shared, everyone else is sleeping...
Happy New Year my dear friends and family. I am so thankful for all of you.
Blessings,
Dawn
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Thoughts/Questions on Paris
Random thoughts/Questions...
1. Washing machine/dryers - not sure how a family could make it on the limited amount of drying power that the machines put out?
2. Medicine - how come it is so cheap?
3. Wine - how come it is so GOOD? :)
4. Salads - they serve a small salad with most meals - including breakfast.
5. Art - How on EARTH did they manage to get so much amazing Art into ONE city?? Seems downright unfair in ways.
6. Fashion - How is it that the women manage to look so chic without even trying? The understated elegance is amazing.
7. Bread - how is it that they all eat so much bread and remain so thin?
8. Small tables - because they are all so thin and space is at such a high commodity - the tables are VERY close together - and the Parisians do not even notice it. Julianna commented that it is like there is a wall around them - they speak and have a full dinner without ever even looking to the right or lef
1. Washing machine/dryers - not sure how a family could make it on the limited amount of drying power that the machines put out?
2. Medicine - how come it is so cheap?
3. Wine - how come it is so GOOD? :)
4. Salads - they serve a small salad with most meals - including breakfast.
5. Art - How on EARTH did they manage to get so much amazing Art into ONE city?? Seems downright unfair in ways.
6. Fashion - How is it that the women manage to look so chic without even trying? The understated elegance is amazing.
7. Bread - how is it that they all eat so much bread and remain so thin?
8. Small tables - because they are all so thin
Let is Snow...Monday continued ...
Anthony decided he wanted to stay in today - so Frank, Julianna, Max and I headed out this afternoon. Anthony stayed with Tessa who remains under the weather.
I had wanted to go to the Chapel of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal, Catherine Laboure The Sain of Silence. We found it through the Metro - and asking around once we got off in the 7th district. I seemed to like the area that we were in... I have seen apartments in the 7th and could consider that for a future stay.
I am SO thrilled we got to the Chapel. It was beautiful and I encourage you to google it and read about her. Amazing.
After we headed back on the Metro to go to Les Invaldes. When we got off - it was SNOWING in Paris!!!! :)It was incredible!!! Snow in Paris. The museum was great. I highly recommend it - It was without a doubt Frank's favorite museum. He loved the war history.
Headed home after having some French Onion soup and crepes.
Tessa was resting and we had a good day. I hope she is feeling better tomorrow.
I had wanted to go to the Chapel of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal, Catherine Laboure The Sain of Silence. We found it through the Metro - and asking around once we got off in the 7th district. I seemed to like the area that we were in... I have seen apartments in the 7th and could consider that for a future stay.
I am SO thrilled we got to the Chapel. It was beautiful and I encourage you to google it and read about her. Amazing.
After we headed back on the Metro to go to Les Invaldes. When we got off - it was SNOWING in Paris!!!! :)It was incredible!!! Snow in Paris. The museum was great. I highly recommend it - It was without a doubt Frank's favorite museum. He loved the war history.
Headed home after having some French Onion soup and crepes.
Tessa was resting and we had a good day. I hope she is feeling better tomorrow.
Monday, December 29, 2008
Monday, December 29
Tessa is still not doing well. It is Monday night here around 9:00 pm. She is not responding yet to the medicine. Bummer.
Frank believes he may have the stomach flu - boy are you all still wishing you were here??? Didn't think so.
This afternoon Julianna and I headed out to a flea market I read about in the 18th district - in a Fodors guide book - I thought that would be a fun way to start out the afternoon -- or not?
The cab took a long time and as we cruised along I noticed we were in the "hood"... different element of people, shops, etc then I had seen in Paris thus far.
Keep going and frankly it is not getting any better. Not seeing many if any tourists. Okay - getting a little nervous... (I am a nervous nelly anyway)
Okay... we get to an area and the cab driver says "this is it" Not what I had envisioned as a French Flea Market - this was more like the swap meet in a REALLY bad area.
The cab driver who speaks no English but this "PICKPOCKET" "WATCH" "PICKPOCKET" I asked in English if this was safe and he kept saying "PICKPOCKET" okay.
We get out and cross the street and start to walk towards the "market" area...okay. Well, I am VERY nervous in my Gucci scarf and long black coat with the fur trim. Julianna has her camera around her neck and the area is SWAMPED with people that are eyeing us up and down and I look at Julianna and she said "let's go" .
I agree 100 percent but um..where to? I saw a Metro up the way as we were driving in... sigh. I said to Julianna "put your camera under your scarf, do NOT speak English at ALL, and keep your eyes straight ahead" I held onto my bags with both hands in front of me and we started walking towards the Metro I think I saw.
Two guys crossing the busy street eye us and turn around to follow us (seriously) - not a good sign. My blood level is getting higher, I am cursing Fodors guide book under my breath and keep saying quietly "stay close to me, do not look at anyone, keep your eyes straight ahead" as we were approached by several and the guys are now one on each side of us.
I saw a "Taxi" sign ahead "YEAH"! "NOOOOOOOO...." They are all lined up but not one person is in the driver seat of ANY of them??? I cannot believe this.
Finally was see one guy but he won't open the locks?? I said "Please" in french he opens the door and we got in.
Thank goodness.
Adventures always add to a trip no?
Off to the Champ d’Ellyse - the first area I thought of. We got there quickly - my how fast a neighborhood can change.
I had my first experience making a purchase for myself at the Hermes store. Yes, I did. Happy Birthday and Merry Christmas to me. :) I delighted in every aspect of being shown the lovely scarves and sampling the different ways to tie them. I am thrilled with my purchase. I asked the truly beautiful woman if she knew of this area and she smiled gently and said "That is not for the privileged" I am not sure how that would translate. I asked "Bad area no?" She repeated "Not for the privileged" . Interesting translation again I thought.
Julianna strolled a little - it remains bitter cold in Paris. We took the Metro back to our area of the Latin Quarter (and seem to have figured out how NOT to take the wrong way) and had a good home cooked meal from America http://www.breakfast-in-america.com Something so funny happened. We walked in and got a table - I do not recall if there was any speaking to the waitress/hostess. She came over and said "hi" and sounded SO American - I must have given her a funny look because she started to speak in French and then I said "Are you American?" and she said 'Oh you speak English, I thought you might but you looked at me so funny when I said "hi" that I thought "oh no, I have offended her - she is French" LOL - She is a grad student from Seattle. :)
AMAZING food. Seriously. They even had Ranch dressing for Julianna - she beamed and we discussed Twilight and laughed about our "adventure".
Came back with take out for Frank and Tessa - Tessa had a few bites and went back to bed..and Frank was not up to eating. If you all know my husband he is SICK if he is not up to eating.
Anthony, Max and Julianna headed out to go ice skating. BAM strike out again. They came home to say it was closed due to a hole in the ice? :(
I am headed to bed soon - I fear it will be a long night - Tessa is restless.
Hope all is well at home.
Suzanne - I will find the PERFECT spot! Rest assured. :)
Frank believes he may have the stomach flu - boy are you all still wishing you were here??? Didn't think so.
This afternoon Julianna and I headed out to a flea market I read about in the 18th district - in a Fodors guide book - I thought that would be a fun way to start out the afternoon -- or not?
The cab took a long time and as we cruised along I noticed we were in the "hood"... different element of people, shops, etc then I had seen in Paris thus far.
Keep going and frankly it is not getting any better. Not seeing many if any tourists. Okay - getting a little nervous... (I am a nervous nelly anyway)
Okay... we get to an area and the cab driver says "this is it" Not what I had envisioned as a French Flea Market - this was more like the swap meet in a REALLY bad area.
The cab driver who speaks no English but this "PICKPOCKET" "WATCH" "PICKPOCKET" I asked in English if this was safe and he kept saying "PICKPOCKET" okay.
We get out and cross the street and start to walk towards the "market" area...okay. Well, I am VERY nervous in my Gucci scarf and long black coat with the fur trim. Julianna has her camera around her neck and the area is SWAMPED with people that are eyeing us up and down and I look at Julianna and she said "let's go" .
I agree 100 percent but um..where to? I saw a Metro up the way as we were driving in... sigh. I said to Julianna "put your camera under your scarf, do NOT speak English at ALL, and keep your eyes straight ahead" I held onto my bags with both hands in front of me and we started walking towards the Metro I think I saw.
Two guys crossing the busy street eye us and turn around to follow us (seriously) - not a good sign. My blood level is getting higher, I am cursing Fodors guide book under my breath and keep saying quietly "stay close to me, do not look at anyone, keep your eyes straight ahead" as we were approached by several and the guys are now one on each side of us.
I saw a "Taxi" sign ahead "YEAH"! "NOOOOOOOO...." They are all lined up but not one person is in the driver seat of ANY of them??? I cannot believe this.
Finally was see one guy but he won't open the locks?? I said "Please" in french he opens the door and we got in.
Thank goodness.
Adventures always add to a trip no?
Off to the Champ d’Ellyse - the first area I thought of. We got there quickly - my how fast a neighborhood can change.
I had my first experience making a purchase for myself at the Hermes store. Yes, I did. Happy Birthday and Merry Christmas to me. :) I delighted in every aspect of being shown the lovely scarves and sampling the different ways to tie them. I am thrilled with my purchase. I asked the truly beautiful woman if she knew of this area and she smiled gently and said "That is not for the privileged" I am not sure how that would translate. I asked "Bad area no?" She repeated "Not for the privileged" . Interesting translation again I thought.
Julianna strolled a little - it remains bitter cold in Paris. We took the Metro back to our area of the Latin Quarter (and seem to have figured out how NOT to take the wrong way) and had a good home cooked meal from America http://www.breakfast-in-america.com Something so funny happened. We walked in and got a table - I do not recall if there was any speaking to the waitress/hostess. She came over and said "hi" and sounded SO American - I must have given her a funny look because she started to speak in French and then I said "Are you American?" and she said 'Oh you speak English, I thought you might but you looked at me so funny when I said "hi" that I thought "oh no, I have offended her - she is French" LOL - She is a grad student from Seattle. :)
AMAZING food. Seriously. They even had Ranch dressing for Julianna - she beamed and we discussed Twilight and laughed about our "adventure".
Came back with take out for Frank and Tessa - Tessa had a few bites and went back to bed..and Frank was not up to eating. If you all know my husband he is SICK if he is not up to eating.
Anthony, Max and Julianna headed out to go ice skating. BAM strike out again. They came home to say it was closed due to a hole in the ice? :(
I am headed to bed soon - I fear it will be a long night - Tessa is restless.
Hope all is well at home.
Suzanne - I will find the PERFECT spot! Rest assured. :)
Musée d'Orsay, Catacombs, American Hospital in Paris...
Alrighty then. What Marraccino trip would be complete with out Miss Tessa needing medical attention?
Well..yesterday started off fabulous - we headed out to the Musee d' Orsay - we had our museum passes but there was still a bit of a line. Tessa was not feeling well and honestly it was BITTER cold yesterday - even the Parisians felt it.
The Muse d' Orsay was a dream... I wish my Mom was here with me. Growing up with copies of Monet's on the wall...and Paul Cézanne... to see the ORGINALS?? A-M-A-Z-I-N-G. I had the same reaction as I did when I had the privilege of seeing the David in Florence. I wanted to weep... but was quickly brought back to reality of Frank, Tessa and Julianna wanting to keep on moving - LOL.
We spent a few hours there - I think someday I would almost like to come back alone or with my Mom. :) To just wander about for hours without worrying about everyone else being happy...
We had lunch across the way from the museum. Was not any place I would recommend but we had the feeling going in that it would be less then desired as many places are that so close to main attractions.
Tessa was fading fast - I sent Frank, Anthony, Julianna and Max off to the Catacombs and Tessa and I headed back to the apartment for her to rest - her eyes were glassy and she was once again looking like she stepped out of the pages of Twilight with a bluish tint under her eyes and a very pale pallor.
I gave her what I got at the pharmacy and started to research where to get a Dr. for her. Thanks for the Fodors board I was able to figure out to take her to the American Hospital in Paris. I waited on Frank but they did not get here and her breathing was getting really wheezy... I had no phone (mistake was that Frank had my phone on him and the boys had a phone on them)... I tried to go down and make a call on the street to no avail.
I got Tessa up and took her to get a cab - she was NOT a happy camper.
It was a LONG ride in the traffic and a crazy French Cab driver who was cursing and carrying on the entire way.
We finally arrived at the American Hospital in Paris to be told that they would not treat her in ER because she was not an adult?? I thought I might cry. The nurse I think took pity on me and said she would go and look for a Pediatrician. A few moments later a French man appeared and whisked us back to his office.
He was very charming and kind - He did an exam and a throat culture - and she has a bacteria infection and he felt she was close to pneumonia. He was able to give me enough antibiotics for the night and got us a cab. Cost? 120 Euros for the entire visit. Amazing. Paid him cash and all was said and done...
Okay..almost.
On the cab ride home Tessa kept saying "I am feeling car sick" Now...to know Tessa is to know Tessa is ALWAYS car sick. I just kept saying 'lay down sweetie", "try to relax"... about half way she says "PARDON MONSUIRE" I realize she is fully going to throw up. (sorry) ...I say "pull over please" (loudly) He swerves the car over - she hops out and retches in a violent fashion ALL over the sidewalk --- many many times. Oh my. The cab driver appears to be leaving..WITH my bag?? I run to the car and he assures me that he was just pulling forward. Okay... he bravely allows us back in the car and we made it home..
There is a note on the door from Frank saying he had no key to get in..to call him. I wonder with what??? LOL
Tessa rests and Frank and Julianna make it home about an hour or so later. They had been waiting for us at a nearby restaurant watching for us to get home - could not see us in the cab.
Julianna LOVED the catacombs and I will share some of her photos when I upload more pictures.
Sigh.
LONG day in Paris. I know that many would say "you do not want to be sick in another country."
I would say you would want to be sick in Paris more then in the USA.
The cost of her 3 prescriptions this morning? 15.00 Euros total. No joke. So for 135 Euros total she had an ER visit and three prescriptions. Hummm..maybe Michael Moore in Sicko was onto something eh? ;-) Come on Obama -- do something for our healthcare! :)
Quiet day thus far here - the boys headed back out - Frank unfortunately is not feeling well either. He is going to stay home with Tessa today and I will head out for a few hours with Julianna to enjoy more of this amazing city that I have fallen in love with.
Well..yesterday started off fabulous - we headed out to the Musee d' Orsay - we had our museum passes but there was still a bit of a line. Tessa was not feeling well and honestly it was BITTER cold yesterday - even the Parisians felt it.
The Muse d' Orsay was a dream... I wish my Mom was here with me. Growing up with copies of Monet's on the wall...and Paul Cézanne... to see the ORGINALS?? A-M-A-Z-I-N-G. I had the same reaction as I did when I had the privilege of seeing the David in Florence. I wanted to weep... but was quickly brought back to reality of Frank, Tessa and Julianna wanting to keep on moving - LOL.
We spent a few hours there - I think someday I would almost like to come back alone or with my Mom. :) To just wander about for hours without worrying about everyone else being happy...
We had lunch across the way from the museum. Was not any place I would recommend but we had the feeling going in that it would be less then desired as many places are that so close to main attractions.
Tessa was fading fast - I sent Frank, Anthony, Julianna and Max off to the Catacombs and Tessa and I headed back to the apartment for her to rest - her eyes were glassy and she was once again looking like she stepped out of the pages of Twilight with a bluish tint under her eyes and a very pale pallor.
I gave her what I got at the pharmacy and started to research where to get a Dr. for her. Thanks for the Fodors board I was able to figure out to take her to the American Hospital in Paris. I waited on Frank but they did not get here and her breathing was getting really wheezy... I had no phone (mistake was that Frank had my phone on him and the boys had a phone on them)... I tried to go down and make a call on the street to no avail.
I got Tessa up and took her to get a cab - she was NOT a happy camper.
It was a LONG ride in the traffic and a crazy French Cab driver who was cursing and carrying on the entire way.
We finally arrived at the American Hospital in Paris to be told that they would not treat her in ER because she was not an adult?? I thought I might cry. The nurse I think took pity on me and said she would go and look for a Pediatrician. A few moments later a French man appeared and whisked us back to his office.
He was very charming and kind - He did an exam and a throat culture - and she has a bacteria infection and he felt she was close to pneumonia. He was able to give me enough antibiotics for the night and got us a cab. Cost? 120 Euros for the entire visit. Amazing. Paid him cash and all was said and done...
Okay..almost.
On the cab ride home Tessa kept saying "I am feeling car sick" Now...to know Tessa is to know Tessa is ALWAYS car sick. I just kept saying 'lay down sweetie", "try to relax"... about half way she says "PARDON MONSUIRE" I realize she is fully going to throw up. (sorry) ...I say "pull over please" (loudly) He swerves the car over - she hops out and retches in a violent fashion ALL over the sidewalk --- many many times. Oh my. The cab driver appears to be leaving..WITH my bag?? I run to the car and he assures me that he was just pulling forward. Okay... he bravely allows us back in the car and we made it home..
There is a note on the door from Frank saying he had no key to get in..to call him. I wonder with what??? LOL
Tessa rests and Frank and Julianna make it home about an hour or so later. They had been waiting for us at a nearby restaurant watching for us to get home - could not see us in the cab.
Julianna LOVED the catacombs and I will share some of her photos when I upload more pictures.
Sigh.
LONG day in Paris. I know that many would say "you do not want to be sick in another country."
I would say you would want to be sick in Paris more then in the USA.
The cost of her 3 prescriptions this morning? 15.00 Euros total. No joke. So for 135 Euros total she had an ER visit and three prescriptions. Hummm..maybe Michael Moore in Sicko was onto something eh? ;-) Come on Obama -- do something for our healthcare! :)
Quiet day thus far here - the boys headed back out - Frank unfortunately is not feeling well either. He is going to stay home with Tessa today and I will head out for a few hours with Julianna to enjoy more of this amazing city that I have fallen in love with.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
The Louvre....and Christmas Markets
I am starting to lose track of the days a little... Today is Sunday - yesterday was Sat. I got up early with the girls and headed out to the Hotel De Louvre. We stayed there in June of 2007 and Julianna LOVED the french toast so we promised her that she could have it again. Frank called the night before to be sure they were still serving the same breakfast - because he and the boys had been out late - it was just the girls and I. We got to the metro and it is was a bit of an adventure. Once again we boarded the wrong train going in the wrong direction...LOL We jumped off - re boarded and were off again!
It was down right cold in the morning. One thing that I have noticed is how sleepy Paris is in the morning. It appeared that a couple was just HEADED home from a night out... we exited the Metro right at the Louvre. BUSY in this area (1st district) - TOURISTS!
Breakfast was comical. The hotel is packed with tourists and and the staff seems slightly frustrated. There was actually NO french toast. So our expensive breakfast with rude staff was not what we had planned for.
Off to the Louvre. I could spend hours writing about our time there. I was completely overwhelmed by the most of art and the building itself. We spent several hours and I could have stayed all day. The girls were having a different time LOL... so off we went. We boarded the Metro to go and find the Christmas Markets. Now, I have wanted to go to Germany and see the authentic markets - and was VERY excited to see these... sort of a bust. Very cheesy..not authentic. Mostly all made in India I think.
We grabbed a cab back as Tessa was hitting a wall again. She is getting sick (gee shocker for those that know how she gets sick often when we travel) and was very tired. The cab was easy and we arrived back at the apartment - Tessa was sleeping before I could count to 10.
The guys headed out as we were coming in - sort of a drag that we were on different schedules yesterdays but it was okay.
I spent the afternoon reading, playing on line and just relaxing as the girls slept.
I headed out to the pharmacy to get some drugs for Tessa. Hopefully they will help her get better - and walked around the Latin Quarter. As I was wandering about - the church bells were ringing and there was a huge crowd gathered - the French Military had their swords up and a lovely bride and groom immerged from the church - pure elegance - what a difference a French bride and groom as opposed to our garish brides and weddings - it was a time warp - all the women in hats and skirts even though it was 23 degrees!
Julianna and I headed out when Frank came home - Tessa was still not feeling well - we took the Metro down to St. Germain and strolled about - anytime I see a old cathedral I have to go in... so I drug Julianna in - and there was another Christmas market still up - again, mostly made in India. :) So no purchases were made.
We strolled and found an Italian Restaurant to dine in - it was nice to have dinner with just Julianna as we do not get that opportunity often - :)
Back home and called it a night - I finally slept all night ! Yeah! But unfortunately Miss Tessa was up again at 3:00 am. Hopefully she will be able to stay awake longer today. It is a brutal cycle.
Today we are going to the Musee d'orsay - and hopefully to the Catacombs - I also want to get to a church of Our Lady of Miraculous Medal where there was a sighting of Virgin Mary. Sounds interesting...
Hope you have a GREAT day!
~Dawn
It was down right cold in the morning. One thing that I have noticed is how sleepy Paris is in the morning. It appeared that a couple was just HEADED home from a night out... we exited the Metro right at the Louvre. BUSY in this area (1st district) - TOURISTS!
Breakfast was comical. The hotel is packed with tourists and and the staff seems slightly frustrated. There was actually NO french toast. So our expensive breakfast with rude staff was not what we had planned for.
Off to the Louvre. I could spend hours writing about our time there. I was completely overwhelmed by the most of art and the building itself. We spent several hours and I could have stayed all day. The girls were having a different time LOL... so off we went. We boarded the Metro to go and find the Christmas Markets. Now, I have wanted to go to Germany and see the authentic markets - and was VERY excited to see these... sort of a bust. Very cheesy..not authentic. Mostly all made in India I think.
We grabbed a cab back as Tessa was hitting a wall again. She is getting sick (gee shocker for those that know how she gets sick often when we travel) and was very tired. The cab was easy and we arrived back at the apartment - Tessa was sleeping before I could count to 10.
The guys headed out as we were coming in - sort of a drag that we were on different schedules yesterdays but it was okay.
I spent the afternoon reading, playing on line and just relaxing as the girls slept.
I headed out to the pharmacy to get some drugs for Tessa. Hopefully they will help her get better - and walked around the Latin Quarter. As I was wandering about - the church bells were ringing and there was a huge crowd gathered - the French Military had their swords up and a lovely bride and groom immerged from the church - pure elegance - what a difference a French bride and groom as opposed to our garish brides and weddings - it was a time warp - all the women in hats and skirts even though it was 23 degrees!
Julianna and I headed out when Frank came home - Tessa was still not feeling well - we took the Metro down to St. Germain and strolled about - anytime I see a old cathedral I have to go in... so I drug Julianna in - and there was another Christmas market still up - again, mostly made in India. :) So no purchases were made.
We strolled and found an Italian Restaurant to dine in - it was nice to have dinner with just Julianna as we do not get that opportunity often - :)
Back home and called it a night - I finally slept all night ! Yeah! But unfortunately Miss Tessa was up again at 3:00 am. Hopefully she will be able to stay awake longer today. It is a brutal cycle.
Today we are going to the Musee d'orsay - and hopefully to the Catacombs - I also want to get to a church of Our Lady of Miraculous Medal where there was a sighting of Virgin Mary. Sounds interesting...
Hope you have a GREAT day!
~Dawn
Friday, December 26, 2008
Negative Nancy or Debbie Downer...you decide..
Well, I have focused on the positive up until (mainly) which of course is not easy for someone who can see her cup as half empty cracked and leaking at times (I read that saying once and could certainly relate!)...
I am sort of grumpy this morning (yes, one can get grumpy even in Paris)so I thought a good time to share the not so bright parts of our trip thus far - :)
1. Our apartment has all wood floors - nice right? NOPE - you hear every creak and sound of anyone walking. That includes the people above us who Tessa said "Were really playing around last night - "growling" at each other" You go with that...
2. Jetlag. Okay - I honestly do not remember being as messed up last time we "crossed" the pond and frankly we went through a lot more to get here (some will recall our trip to Europe in June/July of 2007 by way of Santiago Chile putting us at over 24 flight hours to get to Paris and about 48 real hours so maybe we were just SO messed up it did not feel this bad???)Anyways - we all are just a little off. Tessa of course esp. she is up and wired and then crashes out... and she is sharing a room with Julianna so that creates stress on J's sleeping... I woke up today at 5:00 am and walked out and Anthony was up (he had NEVER been to sleep - that is another rant for another day) and Tessa was looking like she belonged perhaps in Twilight...a little goulish with pale skin and a tint of blue under her eyes - yikes.
3. Honestly...that is it. Wow...guess it is not that bad??? :) The best part is definately being in the same place and not worrying about jamming everything into three days in one country. I know it can be overly tempting once you get to Europe to fill in as much as possible (btdt on our last trip) but as I have mentioned one of my delights with this trip is shopping at the market (although it makes me miss my Mom as I know how much she would relish in the simple act as well - Do we all really become our Moms at some point in our journey???)... I love the Latin Quarter. I have read it is packed in the summer and unpleasant - I have not experienced that at this point. The most crowded we have been (outside of the train last night LOL) was over by the Eiffel tower. A part of me is feeling a little guilty for not getting "things" checked off the list but truly just having a meal, drinking the amazing cheap wine, people watching..it is all what I like to absorb.
I can see how people fall in love with France...the only thing I am itching to do is see another part of the amazing country but alas that might have to be for a future trip..just sshhhhhhhhhh don't mention it to Frank - he knows I am not happy unless I am on a trip, or planning one! :)
I am sort of grumpy this morning (yes, one can get grumpy even in Paris)so I thought a good time to share the not so bright parts of our trip thus far - :)
1. Our apartment has all wood floors - nice right? NOPE - you hear every creak and sound of anyone walking. That includes the people above us who Tessa said "Were really playing around last night - "growling" at each other" You go with that...
2. Jetlag. Okay - I honestly do not remember being as messed up last time we "crossed" the pond and frankly we went through a lot more to get here (some will recall our trip to Europe in June/July of 2007 by way of Santiago Chile putting us at over 24 flight hours to get to Paris and about 48 real hours so maybe we were just SO messed up it did not feel this bad???)Anyways - we all are just a little off. Tessa of course esp. she is up and wired and then crashes out... and she is sharing a room with Julianna so that creates stress on J's sleeping... I woke up today at 5:00 am and walked out and Anthony was up (he had NEVER been to sleep - that is another rant for another day) and Tessa was looking like she belonged perhaps in Twilight...a little goulish with pale skin and a tint of blue under her eyes - yikes.
3. Honestly...that is it. Wow...guess it is not that bad??? :) The best part is definately being in the same place and not worrying about jamming everything into three days in one country. I know it can be overly tempting once you get to Europe to fill in as much as possible (btdt on our last trip) but as I have mentioned one of my delights with this trip is shopping at the market (although it makes me miss my Mom as I know how much she would relish in the simple act as well - Do we all really become our Moms at some point in our journey???)... I love the Latin Quarter. I have read it is packed in the summer and unpleasant - I have not experienced that at this point. The most crowded we have been (outside of the train last night LOL) was over by the Eiffel tower. A part of me is feeling a little guilty for not getting "things" checked off the list but truly just having a meal, drinking the amazing cheap wine, people watching..it is all what I like to absorb.
I can see how people fall in love with France...the only thing I am itching to do is see another part of the amazing country but alas that might have to be for a future trip..just sshhhhhhhhhh don't mention it to Frank - he knows I am not happy unless I am on a trip, or planning one! :)
brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr
Okay...I realize to some of you who might be reading - that it does not seem that cold but man it was a chilly day today!
We ventured out to take the RER to Versailles and felt the cold wind right away...
We got on the wrong train - but made it there no issues once we got on the right train - had lunch in McDonalds (stop lol) I think it cost us just as much as having lunch in a cafe would have though. Note to self on that one. The kids seemed to enjoy it.
The que was long to get tickets to Versailles but we had Museum passes. Please note that many of the museums are free to students - having said that I was not sure if they would still have to wait in line to get a "ticket" so I went ahead and spent the money on the passes to avoid the line. I am glad I did..the line was long and most likely because it was the day after Christmas the palace was crowded - Have I mentioned I hate crowds?
Okay..moving right along - the French have done something interesting to the amazing paintings and art work in Versailles that I would love to understand more. They have a showing of a "modern" artist that is smack in the middle of almost every exhibit. Color me stupid but I simply did not get it. ?? I will post the photos soon and you can decide??
We ventured through the lovely palace and then onto the gardens which would I am sure be far more enjoyable in weather that was above "feels like 24 degrees" - my face actually felt a little frozen.. yup - seriously.
Max and Anthony wanted to continue on in the gardens - Frank and the girls and I went to a Starbucks (yes, I still love my starbucks even in France) and sat down and warmed up!
Back to the train we went - oh wait - chaos of some sort has ensued... people getting on and off trains - announcements coming in french that we do not understand... ? Tessa states "I feel like I am in the holocaust being shoved around on trains, can we PLEASE take a taxi???" Only my daughter. (another note to self: stop making Tessa study the holocaust perhaps enough is enough)
We finally got home on a VERY crowded standing room only train where *I* started to feel like a cow being herded as well... a French man who reminded me of Steve Buscemi was talking to himself or me. I never did figure it out - but he was VERY amused with himself and often just started laughing..after a while it became down right creepy. He reached into his front pocket and slowly pulled out..... his wallet. LOL Surely it was a gun I thought.
We did manage to make it to our stop all in one piece - although I was not sure where Anthony and Max where - they keep trying to distance themselves from us (gee - surprise in that? 18 year old boys in Paris - not wanting to "be" with the dorky woman who looks like she is 700 pounds in all her layers, the whiny 11 year old who has blood shot eyes - and Frank who looks like the Michelin tire with his puffy jacket...)- Norte Dame - I sent Frank back to the apartment with Tessa (who I forgot to mention had been up since 2:30 am - yes, that is correct - 2:30 am - love Jetlag NOT) Okay..where was I? Oh yes, so I sent Tessa and Frank back while Julianna and I went to a grocery store. This was more of a store then I had been able to find - and less expensive as well. Picked up pasta to make for dinner - stopped at another market for my fresh roasted chicken and then onto the produce. I think this might be what I have enjoyed the most - shopping at the markets! I love it.
Made dinner and had to wake everyone up - literally. Not good. Very cranky family.
They wake up slowly and painfully - I am determinded to not let Tessa go to bed before 8:00 pm or else the saga will continue.
Frank, Anthony and Max are out for the night. As I shared before I am simply not a go out at night kind of gal. I know B-O-R-I-N-G.
The plan tomorrow is to get the girls up and go to breakfast at the place we stayed at on our last trip here - it has the MOST amazing french toast in the world... (I think so!) and then go to the Louve. Afterwards to hit the Christmas market on the Champs-Elysées which is supposed to be there till 12-28.
We are definitely all enjoying the aspect of slower travel. I like having the apartment to spread out in.
I believe we have decided there is enough to do in Paris - so rather then spend the cash on the train tickets to go far away - to enjoy more right here. We shall how that feels on Monday or Tuesday.
Hope everyone had a merry merry Christmas!
Blessings,
Dawn
We ventured out to take the RER to Versailles and felt the cold wind right away...
We got on the wrong train - but made it there no issues once we got on the right train - had lunch in McDonalds (stop lol) I think it cost us just as much as having lunch in a cafe would have though. Note to self on that one. The kids seemed to enjoy it.
The que was long to get tickets to Versailles but we had Museum passes. Please note that many of the museums are free to students - having said that I was not sure if they would still have to wait in line to get a "ticket" so I went ahead and spent the money on the passes to avoid the line. I am glad I did..the line was long and most likely because it was the day after Christmas the palace was crowded - Have I mentioned I hate crowds?
Okay..moving right along - the French have done something interesting to the amazing paintings and art work in Versailles that I would love to understand more. They have a showing of a "modern" artist that is smack in the middle of almost every exhibit. Color me stupid but I simply did not get it. ?? I will post the photos soon and you can decide??
We ventured through the lovely palace and then onto the gardens which would I am sure be far more enjoyable in weather that was above "feels like 24 degrees" - my face actually felt a little frozen.. yup - seriously.
Max and Anthony wanted to continue on in the gardens - Frank and the girls and I went to a Starbucks (yes, I still love my starbucks even in France) and sat down and warmed up!
Back to the train we went - oh wait - chaos of some sort has ensued... people getting on and off trains - announcements coming in french that we do not understand... ? Tessa states "I feel like I am in the holocaust being shoved around on trains, can we PLEASE take a taxi???" Only my daughter. (another note to self: stop making Tessa study the holocaust perhaps enough is enough)
We finally got home on a VERY crowded standing room only train where *I* started to feel like a cow being herded as well... a French man who reminded me of Steve Buscemi was talking to himself or me. I never did figure it out - but he was VERY amused with himself and often just started laughing..after a while it became down right creepy. He reached into his front pocket and slowly pulled out..... his wallet. LOL Surely it was a gun I thought.
We did manage to make it to our stop all in one piece - although I was not sure where Anthony and Max where - they keep trying to distance themselves from us (gee - surprise in that? 18 year old boys in Paris - not wanting to "be" with the dorky woman who looks like she is 700 pounds in all her layers, the whiny 11 year old who has blood shot eyes - and Frank who looks like the Michelin tire with his puffy jacket...)- Norte Dame - I sent Frank back to the apartment with Tessa (who I forgot to mention had been up since 2:30 am - yes, that is correct - 2:30 am - love Jetlag NOT) Okay..where was I? Oh yes, so I sent Tessa and Frank back while Julianna and I went to a grocery store. This was more of a store then I had been able to find - and less expensive as well. Picked up pasta to make for dinner - stopped at another market for my fresh roasted chicken and then onto the produce. I think this might be what I have enjoyed the most - shopping at the markets! I love it.
Made dinner and had to wake everyone up - literally. Not good. Very cranky family.
They wake up slowly and painfully - I am determinded to not let Tessa go to bed before 8:00 pm or else the saga will continue.
Frank, Anthony and Max are out for the night. As I shared before I am simply not a go out at night kind of gal. I know B-O-R-I-N-G.
The plan tomorrow is to get the girls up and go to breakfast at the place we stayed at on our last trip here - it has the MOST amazing french toast in the world... (I think so!) and then go to the Louve. Afterwards to hit the Christmas market on the Champs-Elysées which is supposed to be there till 12-28.
We are definitely all enjoying the aspect of slower travel. I like having the apartment to spread out in.
I believe we have decided there is enough to do in Paris - so rather then spend the cash on the train tickets to go far away - to enjoy more right here. We shall how that feels on Monday or Tuesday.
Hope everyone had a merry merry Christmas!
Blessings,
Dawn
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Christmas Day Paris!
It is definately different to be traveling on Christmas day.
The children never did wake up! Frank went to church this morning again and Notre Dame - I caught up with him when the children still did not wake up - and we went to St. Severin - St. Nicolas - the organ was amazing! I will need to remember to post a photo. It was a beautiful morning but getting chiller.
We headed back to the apartment fully expecting to find the kids up - nope. Frank and napped and hung out a little while till we realized we needed to get them up - a very cranky set of girls - who were not happy we did not wake them up to go to Disneyland in Paris. We finally headed out and took the Metro over to the Eiffel tower. It was very crowded in that area. I was not digging it.
The Latin Quarter where we are staying has a nice feel to it - many different resturants, shops etc. The Eiffel tower was purely tourists and now I remembered why I had the wrong notion from our last trip that the French were rude. No, the tourists are rude! Pushing shoving..geeezz...
I do have a funny tip. You get off the main street and there is a long line to get the tickets and go up the tower. I told the family to wait there and I went off to check out what the situation was. There was a much shorter line not too far away? I stopped at information and asked the nice man what the deal was? Why was online so much shorter? Was it different?
His reponse? Classic " Because people are STUPID, they get off the metro and get in que" LOLOLOL.
Alrighty then. I got the family and we waiting not very long to go up the to second floor. It was fun. :) What a treat - Eiffel tower on Paris. It was also C-O-L-D. The wind had picked up and we were chilled. We hung out long enough to take in the view and the sparkling lights! Yeah!
Hungry - we headed back on the metro towards the Latin Quarter. There are a series of streets that I am sure someone out there knows the name of - cobble stone, with Greek Resturants, shops, etc. Breaking plates and everything! We had an amazing Greek meal - wonderful food and service - OPAH! Music...VERY festive!
I will also add that I have read a lot that it is hard to find a resturant or anything open on Christmas in Paris? Not sure where those people have been but there were many choices for food - many - and even some shops open. I was able to go into one of the small stores by the apartment and get some staples. I will say having 6 persons in the apartment we are powering through things - no costco in sight :).
Frank, the girls and I headed back to the apartment. One aspect that I am certainly not French in is that I like to get up early and honestly come back early. Anthony and his friend Max of course stayed out. I told them that no such luck tomorrow for sleeping in...I am going to wake them up and we are going to Versille.
We meet some charming ladies from Charleston - man they were a hoot! All in the fur coats, I thought they were straight out of the old TV show "Designing Women"! But I am every thankful as they said that Bruge was a must do so now the family is starting to bite... although the lovely dames said it was the "Venice of France" - I gently pointed out it was in Belgum - she waved me off with a swosh of her hands... alrighty then! LOL
I hope each of your Christmas was delightful! I it is just 12:00 noon I think in California - so I pray that you have fabulous days!
au revoir for now!
Dawn
The children never did wake up! Frank went to church this morning again and Notre Dame - I caught up with him when the children still did not wake up - and we went to St. Severin - St. Nicolas - the organ was amazing! I will need to remember to post a photo. It was a beautiful morning but getting chiller.
We headed back to the apartment fully expecting to find the kids up - nope. Frank and napped and hung out a little while till we realized we needed to get them up - a very cranky set of girls - who were not happy we did not wake them up to go to Disneyland in Paris. We finally headed out and took the Metro over to the Eiffel tower. It was very crowded in that area. I was not digging it.
The Latin Quarter where we are staying has a nice feel to it - many different resturants, shops etc. The Eiffel tower was purely tourists and now I remembered why I had the wrong notion from our last trip that the French were rude. No, the tourists are rude! Pushing shoving..geeezz...
I do have a funny tip. You get off the main street and there is a long line to get the tickets and go up the tower. I told the family to wait there and I went off to check out what the situation was. There was a much shorter line not too far away? I stopped at information and asked the nice man what the deal was? Why was online so much shorter? Was it different?
His reponse? Classic " Because people are STUPID, they get off the metro and get in que" LOLOLOL.
Alrighty then. I got the family and we waiting not very long to go up the to second floor. It was fun. :) What a treat - Eiffel tower on Paris. It was also C-O-L-D. The wind had picked up and we were chilled. We hung out long enough to take in the view and the sparkling lights! Yeah!
Hungry - we headed back on the metro towards the Latin Quarter. There are a series of streets that I am sure someone out there knows the name of - cobble stone, with Greek Resturants, shops, etc. Breaking plates and everything! We had an amazing Greek meal - wonderful food and service - OPAH! Music...VERY festive!
I will also add that I have read a lot that it is hard to find a resturant or anything open on Christmas in Paris? Not sure where those people have been but there were many choices for food - many - and even some shops open. I was able to go into one of the small stores by the apartment and get some staples. I will say having 6 persons in the apartment we are powering through things - no costco in sight :).
Frank, the girls and I headed back to the apartment. One aspect that I am certainly not French in is that I like to get up early and honestly come back early. Anthony and his friend Max of course stayed out. I told them that no such luck tomorrow for sleeping in...I am going to wake them up and we are going to Versille
We meet some charming ladies from Charleston - man they were a hoot! All in the fur coats, I thought they were straight out of the old TV show "Designing Women"! But I am every thankful as they said that Bruge was a must do so now the family is starting to bite... although the lovely dames said it was the "Venice of France" - I gently pointed out it was in Belgum - she waved me off with a swosh of her hands... alrighty then! LOL
I hope each of your Christmas was delightful! I it is just 12:00 noon I think in California - so I pray that you have fabulous days!
au revoir for now!
Dawn
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Joyeux Noël!
Merry Merry Christmas!
We had a nice dinner in the apartment. It was rather comical - me trying to figure out the stove etc... sigh. I was wishing once again my Mom was here - as she seems to be able to figure these things out. Do we ever reach an age where "Mom" cannot figure it out? I have a feeling not.
Speaking of my Mom, I am a tiny bit morbid this morning missing family at home. Hope the Christmas Day is lovely for my loved ones not here with us. I got a little weepy yesterday missing Ryan. I saw an Apple store and sort of choked up. Silly what can trigger us!
Anyway - back to the trip... we had the fresh pickings from the market and everything was amazing. I swear the carrots taste better here? Is that possible??? A carrot is a carrot?No?
A lovely bottle of French red wine --- a desert that I am not sure what it is called - some sort of a chocolate roll -- they had so many in the display case at the shop - I just said "That one"!
Off we went to the Notre Dame. Okay... I realize it should have been amazing -right? Notre Dame - Christmas Eve? It was a mad house. We all know I abhor crowds... but we got a seat towards the back at 9:20 (yes, I said 9:20 pm - it was crowded already - long lines) We watched what they called the spectacular. Poor Kids, Poor Frank... I confess it was not spectacular. It was a large power point presentation (yes, big screens just like at SVCC LOL!) What WAS spectacular was the fact that we were in the Notre Dame... it is a fabulous building and I was lulled to sleep by the french words..Tessa, Anthony, Max and I all doozed...sorry. :) Wish I could report different but just keeping it real!
The crowds continued to pour in... sort of pushy - lots of tour buses I think???
The spectacular ended at 11:00 pm and we decided to move out - if it had just been Frank and I we would have stayed but I felt the kids might be passed out cold by that time and so might my bottom! (it was numb from sitting in the chairs with Tessa leaning on me!)
Out into the night we ventured - hot wine for Frank and I (do you see a trend??) and hot chocolate from the street for the not so little ones...
Around midnight I called it a night - with the girls and encouraged Frank and the "boys" to hang out longer if they wanted...but Frank headed back with us and we let the guys out on the streets...oh my. They got home later - I heard them come in..not sure what time??
I have stocking for this morning - I have not heard a noise from the children yet - but did hear them all rustling through out the night..
Speaking of - we are still sort of jet lagged. I know I woke up several times through out the night and so did Frank. Could be the city noise, the apartment has all old wood flooring and if anyone gets up of course I hear it.
Not sure what the day will bring - we have talked about heading out to Disneyland Paris - I really do not want to - we all know that I actually love Disneyland but have not been too keen on spending the time and the money to go HERE when it is 20 minutes from my house in the states..but alas - the girls are dying to go. I am not going to wake them for a while - so we shall see.
I wish you all a Merry Merry Christmas celebrating the birth of our Savior Christ!
Love,
Dawn
We had a nice dinner in the apartment. It was rather comical - me trying to figure out the stove etc... sigh. I was wishing once again my Mom was here - as she seems to be able to figure these things out. Do we ever reach an age where "Mom" cannot figure it out? I have a feeling not.
Speaking of my Mom, I am a tiny bit morbid this morning missing family at home. Hope the Christmas Day is lovely for my loved ones not here with us. I got a little weepy yesterday missing Ryan. I saw an Apple store and sort of choked up. Silly what can trigger us!
Anyway - back to the trip... we had the fresh pickings from the market and everything was amazing. I swear the carrots taste better here? Is that possible??? A carrot is a carrot?No?
A lovely bottle of French red wine --- a desert that I am not sure what it is called - some sort of a chocolate roll -- they had so many in the display case at the shop - I just said "That one"!
Off we went to the Notre Dame. Okay... I realize it should have been amazing -right? Notre Dame - Christmas Eve? It was a mad house. We all know I abhor crowds... but we got a seat towards the back at 9:20 (yes, I said 9:20 pm - it was crowded already - long lines) We watched what they called the spectacular. Poor Kids, Poor Frank... I confess it was not spectacular. It was a large power point presentation (yes, big screens just like at SVCC LOL!) What WAS spectacular was the fact that we were in the Notre Dame... it is a fabulous building and I was lulled to sleep by the french words..Tessa, Anthony, Max and I all doozed...sorry. :) Wish I could report different but just keeping it real!
The crowds continued to pour in... sort of pushy - lots of tour buses I think???
The spectacular ended at 11:00 pm and we decided to move out - if it had just been Frank and I we would have stayed but I felt the kids might be passed out cold by that time and so might my bottom! (it was numb from sitting in the chairs with Tessa leaning on me!)
Out into the night we ventured - hot wine for Frank and I (do you see a trend??) and hot chocolate from the street for the not so little ones...
Around midnight I called it a night - with the girls and encouraged Frank and the "boys" to hang out longer if they wanted...but Frank headed back with us and we let the guys out on the streets...oh my. They got home later - I heard them come in..not sure what time??
I have stocking for this morning - I have not heard a noise from the children yet - but did hear them all rustling through out the night..
Speaking of - we are still sort of jet lagged. I know I woke up several times through out the night and so did Frank. Could be the city noise, the apartment has all old wood flooring and if anyone gets up of course I hear it.
Not sure what the day will bring - we have talked about heading out to Disneyland Paris - I really do not want to - we all know that I actually love Disneyland but have not been too keen on spending the time and the money to go HERE when it is 20 minutes from my house in the states..but alas - the girls are dying to go. I am not going to wake them for a while - so we shall see.
I wish you all a Merry Merry Christmas celebrating the birth of our Savior Christ!
Love,
Dawn
Afternoon December 24
It seems like a very long day today - good but hard to believe it is only 4:20 here... Frank, Julianna and I went out for a while - we never did find a Christmas market :(.
We strolled to the Notre Dame and kept walking over to the ice skating rink - while Anthony, Tessa and Max continuing SLEEPING... hot wine, a sandwich and strolling about...
Now Frank is sleeping and the rest of the natives are getting restless...
Dinner in tonight - whole chickens and fresh produce :)
10:00 pm at the Notre Dame for some sort of celebration? Sounds good.
We strolled to the Notre Dame and kept walking over to the ice skating rink - while Anthony, Tessa and Max continuing SLEEPING... hot wine, a sandwich and strolling about...
Now Frank is sleeping and the rest of the natives are getting restless...
Dinner in tonight - whole chickens and fresh produce :)
10:00 pm at the Notre Dame for some sort of celebration? Sounds good.
The markets!
Good morning! And it is one here.
I fell back to sleep around 3:30 or so and slept till around 9:45 am - all is well - headed out to get something for "provisions" for the next few days. Oh what fun!
Tessa and Anthony were already out and having breakfast - the rest of the crew was sleeping soundly. I enjoyed the crisp (see: cold) morning air and the feeling on the streets. As I explored around I was delighted to find fresh markets already booming... I saw a long line coming out of a bakery and knew that was the place to get my breads. I was certainly intimadated in the line with all the Parisians to say the least. I stumbled slightly forward knowing my one or two french phrases "do you speak english" being one! I realize that it is a small delight but I confess to be thrilled with just walking about and picking up a few things here and there in all the shops.
I realized that there was no way that I was going to be able to get all I needed and carry it back myself - so I got enough for breakfast and headed back to the apartment.
There is a code in order to get to in the door of the apartment..well - I kept putting it in to no avail - Tessa and Anthony fortunately strolled up the street and told me I was at the wrong door. Oppsss... I wonder how long that would have taken me to figure out!
Frank and I headed back out - this time with my large tote - NOW I was a real Parisian. Of course I was thrilled as people mistook me in my black slack, sweater and coat for being French :).
Wine is amazing here adn such a fabulous price! I have to say to my Saddleback Staff that might be reading my blog I have never been so thrilled NOT to be on Staff.
Whole chickens, cheese, wine, bread, fruit, sausage... we are set for a few days :).
Now... the issue is that we came back to a sleeping apartment...humm..to let them sleep or not? I think I shall for a while - we are wanting to go to midnight mass this evening so it is most likely a good idea!
Joyeux Noël my friends and family!
I fell back to sleep around 3:30 or so and slept till around 9:45 am - all is well - headed out to get something for "provisions" for the next few days. Oh what fun!
Tessa and Anthony were already out and having breakfast - the rest of the crew was sleeping soundly. I enjoyed the crisp (see: cold) morning air and the feeling on the streets. As I explored around I was delighted to find fresh markets already booming... I saw a long line coming out of a bakery and knew that was the place to get my breads. I was certainly intimadated in the line with all the Parisians to say the least. I stumbled slightly forward knowing my one or two french phrases "do you speak english" being one! I realize that it is a small delight but I confess to be thrilled with just walking about and picking up a few things here and there in all the shops.
I realized that there was no way that I was going to be able to get all I needed and carry it back myself - so I got enough for breakfast and headed back to the apartment.
There is a code in order to get to in the door of the apartment..well - I kept putting it in to no avail - Tessa and Anthony fortunately strolled up the street and told me I was at the wrong door. Oppsss... I wonder how long that would have taken me to figure out!
Frank and I headed back out - this time with my large tote - NOW I was a real Parisian. Of course I was thrilled as people mistook me in my black slack, sweater and coat for being French :).
Wine is amazing here adn such a fabulous price! I have to say to my Saddleback Staff that might be reading my blog I have never been so thrilled NOT to be on Staff
Whole chickens, cheese, wine, bread, fruit, sausage... we are set for a few days :).
Now... the issue is that we came back to a sleeping apartment...humm..to let them sleep or not? I think I shall for a while - we are wanting to go to midnight mass this evening so it is most likely a good idea!
Joyeux Noël my friends and family!
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
We are here!!!
Well here we are :) We made it! All six of us (including Anthony's friend Max)... It is 3:15 am and I should really be sleeping but thought I would update first.
We got through LAX no issues at all - were assigned our seats (as some of you know we had NO seats thank you Orbtiz) I was very concerned about our tickets as there had been also been ongoing issues - nothing - no problems!
We saw Collin Farrel at the airport and the kids thought that was oh too cool.
AirFrance was fabulous - two meals - all the movies you can watch - We slept on and off through most of the flight. Even Tessa who hates to fly and does not sleep on planes - Tylenol PM and she was OUT.
Upon arrival in this beautiful city we cruised through customs, and got our bags - caught up with Max no real issues. He had a much longer day then us going from LAX to JFK to LHR to Paris. The drive to our apartment took longer then I recalled from our last visit here - lots of traffic - we landed at 5:15 and did not get to our apartment till around 8:00 pm or so.
Quick (as if anything with 6 people can be quick?) unpacking and off to explore. The weather was fabulous last night - clear and cool. Could not be nicer! Hope it stays like that but I imagine that might be too much to ask for :).
Strolled the streets and found a lovely corner cafe - it was yummy! The best part? The wine! Oh my - a carafe of wine for around 15.00 dollars? Love that!!
Then off for crepes from the street! Nuttella and bananas..not sure that is fair!
Everyone has been so helpful, charming and kind.
A fine start to our holiday!
Now..I should get off to try to sleep. Tomorrow morning is Christmas Eve here - we are going to the Christmas markets and then the Notre Damn which is within walking distance from our apartment.
Merry Christmas to all!
Love,
Frank, Dawn and all the kids!
We got through LAX no issues at all - were assigned our seats (as some of you know we had NO seats thank you Orbtiz) I was very concerned about our tickets as there had been also been ongoing issues - nothing - no problems!
We saw Collin Farrel at the airport and the kids thought that was oh too cool.
AirFrance was fabulous - two meals - all the movies you can watch - We slept on and off through most of the flight. Even Tessa who hates to fly and does not sleep on planes - Tylenol PM and she was OUT.
Upon arrival in this beautiful city we cruised through customs, and got our bags - caught up with Max no real issues. He had a much longer day then us going from LAX to JFK to LHR to Paris. The drive to our apartment took longer then I recalled from our last visit here - lots of traffic - we landed at 5:15 and did not get to our apartment till around 8:00 pm or so.
Quick (as if anything with 6 people can be quick?) unpacking and off to explore. The weather was fabulous last night - clear and cool. Could not be nicer! Hope it stays like that but I imagine that might be too much to ask for :).
Strolled the streets and found a lovely corner cafe - it was yummy! The best part? The wine! Oh my - a carafe of wine for around 15.00 dollars? Love that!!
Then off for crepes from the street! Nuttella and bananas..not sure that is fair!
Everyone has been so helpful, charming and kind.
A fine start to our holiday!
Now..I should get off to try to sleep. Tomorrow morning is Christmas Eve here - we are going to the Christmas markets and then the Notre Damn which is within walking distance from our apartment.
Merry Christmas to all!
Love,
Frank, Dawn and all the kids!
Sunday, December 21, 2008
oh boy... leaving tomorrow...
Well folks - it has been a while since I wrote. Off we go to Paris tomorrow!
I have my normal pre-trip anxiety setting in - I am packed (pretty much) Insisted the family pack already as well.
Shooting Star Limo is picking us up and off we go to LAX - we are getting there early was we have a seat situation on Airfrance (see: have only middle seats) ...
I am wondering what this wild weather all over the country will do to our flights if anything.
We are flying direct into Paris - from Lax - we arrive on December 23 at 5:30 pm.
We are meeting Anthony's friend Max at the airport in Paris. His flight is on AA and is going from LAX to Chicago (do we have a GROAN???) Chicago to LHR then onto Paris...:)
Off to our apartment for 10 fabulous nights!
I will update during the trip - Frank has his laptop!!
Merry Christmas to all!!
I have my normal pre-trip anxiety setting in - I am packed (pretty much) Insisted the family pack already as well.
Shooting Star Limo is picking us up and off we go to LAX - we are getting there early was we have a seat situation on Airfrance (see: have only middle seats) ...
I am wondering what this wild weather all over the country will do to our flights if anything.
We are flying direct into Paris - from Lax - we arrive on December 23 at 5:30 pm.
We are meeting Anthony's friend Max at the airport in Paris. His flight is on AA and is going from LAX to Chicago (do we have a GROAN???) Chicago to LHR then onto Paris...:)
Off to our apartment for 10 fabulous nights!
I will update during the trip - Frank has his laptop!!
Merry Christmas to all!!
Friday, November 14, 2008
Julianna is headed to Kenya
While Tessa and I were in Washington DC we got a phone call from Julianna who told me she wanted to go to Africa with her High School Ministry group. My first reaction was definately - Yeah! Go! I was more timid with Julianna and said "go to the meeting and get all the information". Julianna is my stepdaughter - I have been her Stepmom since she was just three years old. She has no memory of life without "Dawnie". A few years ago we were all set to go to J'burg - and go to group homes through Acres of Love. As things do work out at times - Tessa got VERY sick and we were unsure if we would be able to make the trip. About three weeks prior her dr said that she did not feel comfortable having Tessa go to AIDS homes with her weakened immune system and because we had no idea what Tessa had (it remains a mystery to this day) that she would actually be compromising the children IN the homes. Long story short - Julianna was devestated as we were unable to go to Africa.
Went to Europe instead - did not seem very holy but it was fun. :-)
Julianna has grown in her own faith over the last few years and is now headed to Africa without me! It is amazing to me that she is going to get there before me??? I have wanted to go since the fall of 2002...So for 9 years now almost I have prayed, at times planned and then had to cancel my own trips - and here goes Julianna! :-)
She is in the process of raising her support as the trip is very costly and honestly part of the process for her is in the faith to raise the funds, the personal sacrifice that she is making. She is willing to not recieve any Christmas gifts for the funds to go to her trip, she is babysitting and even Tessa is going to babysit and give Julianna money for her trip. Way to go family!
If you would join me in praying for sweet Julianna - she is overwhelmed at this time - she will be missing NINE days of school and that is stressing her out as well the details that she personally has to tend to to make the trip happen.
Blessings,
Dawn
Went to Europe instead - did not seem very holy but it was fun. :-)
Julianna has grown in her own faith over the last few years and is now headed to Africa without me! It is amazing to me that she is going to get there before me??? I have wanted to go since the fall of 2002...So for 9 years now almost I have prayed, at times planned and then had to cancel my own trips - and here goes Julianna! :-)
She is in the process of raising her support as the trip is very costly and honestly part of the process for her is in the faith to raise the funds, the personal sacrifice that she is making. She is willing to not recieve any Christmas gifts for the funds to go to her trip, she is babysitting and even Tessa is going to babysit and give Julianna money for her trip. Way to go family!
If you would join me in praying for sweet Julianna - she is overwhelmed at this time - she will be missing NINE days of school and that is stressing her out as well the details that she personally has to tend to to make the trip happen.
Blessings,
Dawn
home...
I just sort of stopped writing. We had a change of plans for the last few days of our trip due to the death in Frank's family. I ended up leaving DC and driving back to New York to attend the funeral and Tessa fly home solo.
Now that we have been home for a few weeks.... and the memories are all good of the trip. :-)
I would say over all that I loved DC the most and would love to go back at some point and enjoy the museums at a pace that I want rather then an eleven year old.
I know that Tessa will be headed back to school in the traditional setting soon and that makes the time that we have spent together even sweeter. It has been bumpy - I would not say I am cut out to be a homeschool Mom. I have a lot of respect for those that can do this and do it well. I think I am basically not wired up for it - but know that through God I have been able to work through the challenges and the hard times - not always gracioiusly! LOL
Our next trip is to Paris in December - I will be sure to write about it. It is for the whole family so I might have to change the name of the blog :-)
Now that we have been home for a few weeks.... and the memories are all good of the trip. :-)
I would say over all that I loved DC the most and would love to go back at some point and enjoy the museums at a pace that I want rather then an eleven year old.
I know that Tessa will be headed back to school in the traditional setting soon and that makes the time that we have spent together even sweeter. It has been bumpy - I would not say I am cut out to be a homeschool Mom. I have a lot of respect for those that can do this and do it well. I think I am basically not wired up for it - but know that through God I have been able to work through the challenges and the hard times - not always gracioiusly! LOL
Our next trip is to Paris in December - I will be sure to write about it. It is for the whole family so I might have to change the name of the blog :-)
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Washington DC and tired...
We had an amazing time in Williamsburg. Well, at least I did. I think over all Tessa is done. She has mentioned wanting to go home a few times, her foot is bothering her a little and I am on her last nerve. Good thing we did not do 5 weeks in Europe.
The Inn at Williamburg lived up to it's reputation. It is a beautiful property. The weather was great and I loved all the history. I would love to go back..sans my daughter. :-)
Sat am we headed out to DC in our rental car.
Okay - seems easy enough eh?
It took us 2 hours in DC to return the car due to being lost and unable to find the rental car return at Union Station. If you are ever renting a car here or returning it here - email me for details - not good.
We missed our "time" that I had reserved to the Washington Monument and came to the hotel.
The Westin is very nice. A smaller property - in the foggy Bottom area of DC. I selected this property only because it is 60.00 a night plus points. I would choose to stay in a slightly different location if not tied to points.
We walked to dinner which was yummy and hit the sack early.
Today we went to the Holocaust museum and the Spy museum. I think it sounds odd to say that I loved the Holocaust museum but I did. I have had a facination with the holocaust and what went on. It is mind boggling and baffling to me. I wept and was and am overwhelmed with saddness and honestly confusion. That stays with me. May we never forget.
Off to the spy musuem. Tessa loved it!
Tessa can only take so much walking and so many museums. So back to the hotel we came and are just chillling out before we have some dinner.
One thing, Frank's Uncle Mike passed away yesterday, so that has saddened our trip.
Love to all,
Dawn and Tessa
The Inn at Williamburg lived up to it's reputation. It is a beautiful property. The weather was great and I loved all the history. I would love to go back..sans my daughter. :-)
Sat am we headed out to DC in our rental car.
Okay - seems easy enough eh?
It took us 2 hours in DC to return the car due to being lost and unable to find the rental car return at Union Station. If you are ever renting a car here or returning it here - email me for details - not good.
We missed our "time" that I had reserved to the Washington Monument and came to the hotel.
The Westin is very nice. A smaller property - in the foggy Bottom area of DC. I selected this property only because it is 60.00 a night plus points. I would choose to stay in a slightly different location if not tied to points.
We walked to dinner which was yummy and hit the sack early.
Today we went to the Holocaust museum and the Spy museum. I think it sounds odd to say that I loved the Holocaust museum but I did. I have had a facination with the holocaust and what went on. It is mind boggling and baffling to me. I wept and was and am overwhelmed with saddness and honestly confusion. That stays with me. May we never forget.
Off to the spy musuem. Tessa loved it!
Tessa can only take so much walking and so many museums. So back to the hotel we came and are just chillling out before we have some dinner.
One thing, Frank's Uncle Mike passed away yesterday, so that has saddened our trip.
Love to all,
Dawn and Tessa
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
oh boy...this I LOVE
Okay... out of Philly - bye bye... cannot say that I am sorry to leave. We had a LONG train ride today which I will share more about another time but had had had to post on the Williamsburg Inn... I should have taken a day off Philly and added it here... I want to come back with Frank. I LOVE this place...
Promise to write more but this is FABULOUS.
Promise to write more but this is FABULOUS.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Day Two in Philly
Where to start -
Last night was nice - we hung out at the hotel - went swimming and enjoyed the steam room and sauna. It was nice to do some laps and Tessa enjoyed her first time in a steam and sauna.
Some comments on the hotel. It is a good property - a little tired but it would be a great business hotel and depending on the rate a good place to bring the family. It was nice last night to decompress by swimming. They also do have a laundry area that we were able to do some basics in. The restaurant which we ate in last night was very good. Service has been excellent. There are several chain restaurants surrounding the property - Maggionos,Melting Pot, Chili's and Hard Rock.
It continues to be very warm. I believe it was about 80 degrees today.
We headed out this morning and I had to take Tessa to get a "real" Philly cheese steak. So off to Geno's we went. She was 100% unimpressed at best. LOL
Off to the Art Museum. We do NOT "do" museums well together at all. I like to really take my time and reading everything - she is whizzing through - pulling at my arm. Annoying at best I confess (most likely to us both!).
After about an hour or so (I could have spent the day there) we went back to Independence Hall area - I wanted to go to the Constitution Hall. (I think that was the name??) - FABULOUS. Great show to start with. I am so moved by our country and freedom in general - it was a great place. Tessa actually also really enjoyed it and I saw her really getting into it.
They currently have an exhibition on the 2008 election that we also spent a good deal of time in. I recommend it highly if you are in the area.
That is about it... we do not have the proper clothing for this weather - so I truly hope it cools off soon!!
~ Dawn & Tessa
Last night was nice - we hung out at the hotel - went swimming and enjoyed the steam room and sauna. It was nice to do some laps and Tessa enjoyed her first time in a steam and sauna.
Some comments on the hotel. It is a good property - a little tired but it would be a great business hotel and depending on the rate a good place to bring the family. It was nice last night to decompress by swimming. They also do have a laundry area that we were able to do some basics in. The restaurant which we ate in last night was very good. Service has been excellent. There are several chain restaurants surrounding the property - Maggionos,Melting Pot, Chili's and Hard Rock.
It continues to be very warm. I believe it was about 80 degrees today.
We headed out this morning and I had to take Tessa to get a "real" Philly cheese steak. So off to Geno's we went. She was 100% unimpressed at best. LOL
Off to the Art Museum. We do NOT "do" museums well together at all. I like to really take my time and reading everything - she is whizzing through - pulling at my arm. Annoying at best I confess (most likely to us both!).
After about an hour or so (I could have spent the day there) we went back to Independence Hall area - I wanted to go to the Constitution Hall. (I think that was the name??) - FABULOUS. Great show to start with. I am so moved by our country and freedom in general - it was a great place. Tessa actually also really enjoyed it and I saw her really getting into it.
They currently have an exhibition on the 2008 election that we also spent a good deal of time in. I recommend it highly if you are in the area.
That is about it... we do not have the proper clothing for this weather - so I truly hope it cools off soon!!
~ Dawn & Tessa
Monday, October 13, 2008
Okay..not everything works out liked you plan...
Okay... well - yesterday afternoon I was pretty excited to hit the road and get to Lancaster and our quaint B & B... we had a seamless drive out to Lancaster - Sooo pretty with all the colors changing with the leaves..not a cloud in the sky...
But it was not as I imagined...it was definitely a run down poorer feeling city. We found our B & B- it was ummm..well, about a block away from a full security PRISON. Um..no, I am not kidding. Full on barbed wire ..and a very interesting crowd for visiting hours.. Toto we are NOT in Kanas anymore...and frankly we are not in Lancaster anymore either!
That's right - we drove around for about 15 minutes and I made an executive decision to drive to Philly. I did not feel safe staying in the B & B with Tessa. We had a small cottage on the back of the B & B and I know I would have been up all night. As we headed out on route 30 I saw the quaint area that I THOUGHT we were staying in. Yes, I did research, Yes, I looked up the B & B on trip advisor and read about it in guide books. Strange.
Sooo..off we went to Philly. We did see Amish people as we drove on Route 30 - in their horse and buggies. Oh well. Not all trips are perfect!
We managed to check into the Marriot downtown Philly. I had actually read iffy things on this hotel but I was using points for two of the nights so it was going to be fine. I was more then pleasantly surprised. It is a lovely property and seems to be in a decent area.
We checked in no issues (I was stressed as it is VERY busy) - had a nice dinner at the Melting Pot at Tessa's request and were in for the night.
I had to return our car this morning so headed out to do that early.
Off we went to Independence Hall. We saw the Liberty Bell and the area where the declaration of Independence was signed and the Constitution was ratified. I was very interested (I believe more so then Tessa) as having watched much of the recent John Adams as well as the significance that the Liberty Bell has represented over the years...
This afternoon we walked around a bit and then had "tea" at the Four Seasons - what a treat! It was lovely. There is an old Church - St. Peters right across the way and I have a thing for old Churches and drug Tessa in there. She said to me "Mom, didn't we ALREADY SEE St. Peters"... well, she meant St. Peters IN Rome. I think she definitely has traveled for an eleven year old :-).
I have to say over all Philadelphia has a strange vibe to it. People say New Yorkers are not friendly - well, that has not been my experience. I will say that over all people here seem very depressed and there are many homeless and very down and out people. It is slightly depressing. Very angry people walking around.... I am smiling and realize people are looking at me like I have a third eye.
The weather has been VERY warm! I think it is warmer here then in Southern California right now. So much for the Pea-coats we brought!
I did go to Macy's... It is the old Wanamakers building where I know I was at as a child... funny time warp.
Not sure what the morning will bring. We are here till Wed. in the morning.
Again - hope everyone is doing well.
Lots of love,
Dawn & Tessa
But it was not as I imagined...it was definitely a run down poorer feeling city. We found our B & B- it was ummm..well, about a block away from a full security PRISON. Um..no, I am not kidding. Full on barbed wire ..and a very interesting crowd for visiting hours.. Toto we are NOT in Kanas anymore...and frankly we are not in Lancaster anymore either!
That's right - we drove around for about 15 minutes and I made an executive decision to drive to Philly. I did not feel safe staying in the B & B with Tessa. We had a small cottage on the back of the B & B and I know I would have been up all night. As we headed out on route 30 I saw the quaint area that I THOUGHT we were staying in. Yes, I did research, Yes, I looked up the B & B on trip advisor and read about it in guide books. Strange.
Sooo..off we went to Philly. We did see Amish people as we drove on Route 30 - in their horse and buggies. Oh well. Not all trips are perfect!
We managed to check into the Marriot downtown Philly. I had actually read iffy things on this hotel but I was using points for two of the nights so it was going to be fine. I was more then pleasantly surprised. It is a lovely property and seems to be in a decent area.
We checked in no issues (I was stressed as it is VERY busy) - had a nice dinner at the Melting Pot at Tessa's request and were in for the night.
I had to return our car this morning so headed out to do that early.
Off we went to Independence Hall. We saw the Liberty Bell and the area where the declaration of Independence was signed and the Constitution was ratified. I was very interested (I believe more so then Tessa) as having watched much of the recent John Adams as well as the significance that the Liberty Bell has represented over the years...
This afternoon we walked around a bit and then had "tea" at the Four Seasons - what a treat! It was lovely. There is an old Church - St. Peters right across the way and I have a thing for old Churches and drug Tessa in there. She said to me "Mom, didn't we ALREADY SEE St. Peters"... well, she meant St. Peters IN Rome. I think she definitely has traveled for an eleven year old :-).
I have to say over all Philadelphia has a strange vibe to it. People say New Yorkers are not friendly - well, that has not been my experience. I will say that over all people here seem very depressed and there are many homeless and very down and out people. It is slightly depressing. Very angry people walking around.... I am smiling and realize people are looking at me like I have a third eye.
The weather has been VERY warm! I think it is warmer here then in Southern California right now. So much for the Pea-coats we brought!
I did go to Macy's... It is the old Wanamakers
Not sure what the morning will bring. We are here till Wed. in the morning.
Again - hope everyone is doing well.
Lots of love,
Dawn & Tessa
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Off we go again...
Well it is Sunday afternoon and I should be packing :-) But wanted to check in as I am not sure how much computer access I am going to have over the next few days.
We had a blast all weekend. It warmed my heart to see my little nieces yesterday and to see Tessa hanging out playing with them all day.
Frank's family is so warm and gracious. We spent the day with Angela, and her daughter Domenica - who I realized I have not seen since Frank's Mom passed away a number of years ago. Joy, Frank's stepmom, Domenica, and her two girls, Frankie and Anna Rose - and of course Micheal, Theresa, Sophia, Peter was even here from Philly and Michelle. It was a great family day full of good food, laughter and relaxing. So glad to have been here.
Today Tessa and I are headed to Lancaster - I have never been (at least that I remember) The weather is beyond perfect - not a cloud in the sky in the mid 70's. Wow. :-)
We are staying at a B&B which will be something different for Tessa as generally we stay at properties where we get "points" or are using points for free stays so even for me it is a treat. (not that staying for free is not a GREAT treat!)
Hope everyone is having a peaceful weekend.
Lots of Love,
Dawn & Tessa
We had a blast all weekend. It warmed my heart to see my little nieces yesterday and to see Tessa hanging out playing with them all day.
Frank's family is so warm and gracious. We spent the day with Angela, and her daughter Domenica - who I realized I have not seen since Frank's Mom passed away a number of years ago. Joy, Frank's stepmom, Domenica, and her two girls, Frankie and Anna Rose - and of course Micheal, Theresa, Sophia, Peter was even here from Philly and Michelle. It was a great family day full of good food, laughter and relaxing. So glad to have been here.
Today Tessa and I are headed to Lancaster - I have never been (at least that I remember) The weather is beyond perfect - not a cloud in the sky in the mid 70's. Wow. :-)
We are staying at a B&B which will be something different for Tessa as generally we stay at properties where we get "points" or are using points for free stays so even for me it is a treat. (not that staying for free is not a GREAT treat!)
Hope everyone is having a peaceful weekend.
Lots of Love,
Dawn & Tessa
Friday, October 10, 2008
Wow!!!!
Okay - I am not sure that there is a better time to be in New York City then October.
Our time in New York was really amazing.
Wed morning we headed over by subway to the Natural History Museum. It was great- glorious weather - very easy to find via the subway. We spent a few hours there (you could easily do four hours but we only had about two hours) - grabbed a hot pretzel and hot dog off the street and we were off to see Legally Blonde.
I had purchased tickets about six weeks ago - we had very good seats. One should know I am a lover of theater... all aspects of it - so I was very excited. I will say that the show was "okay". I am happy we went but would not recommend to someone who has not seen a ton of plays (It is coming to Orange County and I would not spend $$$ on it) - We both felt it was "okay". Paulette and her UPS guy (for those that know the film) stole the show - and that was really the extent of it.
We headed off to Tavern on the Green via a "pedi-cab" - it was a fabulous evening - just a perfect fall night - we strolled around the grounds a little prior to our seating - it was very um... fancy :-). Tessa and I had a lovely little table right on the window and I was excited for the sun to set and the twinkle lights to go on... the food was definitely mediocre. Again, I do not feel I would recommend it but having said that - I am very glad we went.
After dinner we took a fabulous carriage right through Central park. It was dreamy :-).
We got a car to bring us back to the hotel as I was very tired and not up for figuring out the subway at 8:30 pm and getting lost in NYC with my eleven year old daughter.
Thursday - we were up around 9:00 am and off for an adventure by 10:00...going to see family on Staten Island.
We left no mode of public transportation left unturned. We took the subway to the Staten Island Ferry and took that to Staten Island and then took the Staten Island Train over to where our family picked us up for a really sweet afternoon. It did take a lot longer then I had planned (two hours!). We decided to take the bus back into the city and left around 3:30 - we just got back by 5:30 to our room. It was a very long day of four hours of transportation but well worth it to see our family.
Tonight was Hairspray!!! We unfortunately missed our dinner reservations at 5:00 and grabbed a bit closer to the theater for our 7:00 pm show.What fun we had!
I definitely 100% recommend this show to all - Tessa and I had a blast - very talented cast and crew!
Tessa wanted to wait by the stage door after the show and it was really cute to watch her interact with the cast - getting autographs and pictures. I will share the pictures when I can upload them.
We headed off for our last night in the city and went to Ellen's Stardust Diner - a place where aspiring Broadway actors/actresses wait tables and sing while they do! Tessa had a milk shake and I enjoyed a glass of wine.
Back to the room by around and played cards and giggled and were finally sleeping by 1:00 am :-).
This morning it was another mass transit day - cab to Penn station - figuring out how to get to Newark to pick up our rental car (I did not want to drive in the city and the drop rate was around 150.00 LESS to pick up in Newark then in Manhattan as we are returning the car in Philly on Monday)...
It was a long morning of trains and lugging bags but we were in our rental car by around 1:00 pm ... and on the 78 west heading to Theresa's house.
We went to her store and grabbed a bit - it feels great being here.
We were in New York in August and Tessa did NOT care for it..she had a much different experience this time around :-).
A few notes:
The hotel was good - remember we were there on points - I think I might not have been happy if I was paying rack rate. I did like the location - it was great for being there for shows. It was OUT of Time Square (I have stayed at the Marriott RIGHT in TimeSquare and it is overload for me - I prefer uptown to Timesquare area but for those seeing shows it is a good location). Note: If you DO stay there please ask for a high floor. We were on the 3rd floor and at times I heard the subway in the middle of the night running under us. Higher up it should not have been an issue.
We are here till Sunday when we head over to Lancaster/Amish Country.
Hope all is well at home!
Love,
Dawn & Tessa
Our time in New York was really amazing.
Wed morning we headed over by subway to the Natural History Museum. It was great- glorious weather - very easy to find via the subway. We spent a few hours there (you could easily do four hours but we only had about two hours) - grabbed a hot pretzel and hot dog off the street and we were off to see Legally Blonde.
I had purchased tickets about six weeks ago - we had very good seats. One should know I am a lover of theater... all aspects of it - so I was very excited. I will say that the show was "okay". I am happy we went but would not recommend to someone who has not seen a ton of plays (It is coming to Orange County and I would not spend $$$ on it) - We both felt it was "okay". Paulette and her UPS guy (for those that know the film) stole the show - and that was really the extent of it.
We headed off to Tavern on the Green via a "pedi-cab" - it was a fabulous evening - just a perfect fall night - we strolled around the grounds a little prior to our seating - it was very um... fancy :-). Tessa and I had a lovely little table right on the window and I was excited for the sun to set and the twinkle lights to go on... the food was definitely mediocre. Again, I do not feel I would recommend it but having said that - I am very glad we went.
After dinner we took a fabulous carriage right through Central park. It was dreamy :-).
We got a car to bring us back to the hotel as I was very tired and not up for figuring out the subway at 8:30 pm and getting lost in NYC with my eleven year old daughter.
Thursday - we were up around 9:00 am and off for an adventure by 10:00...going to see family on Staten Island.
We left no mode of public transportation left unturned. We took the subway to the Staten Island Ferry and took that to Staten Island and then took the Staten Island Train over to where our family picked us up for a really sweet afternoon. It did take a lot longer then I had planned (two hours!). We decided to take the bus back into the city and left around 3:30 - we just got back by 5:30 to our room. It was a very long day of four hours of transportation but well worth it to see our family.
Tonight was Hairspray!!! We unfortunately missed our dinner reservations at 5:00 and grabbed a bit closer to the theater for our 7:00 pm show.What fun we had!
I definitely 100% recommend this show to all - Tessa and I had a blast - very talented cast and crew!
Tessa wanted to wait by the stage door after the show and it was really cute to watch her interact with the cast - getting autographs and pictures. I will share the pictures when I can upload them.
We headed off for our last night in the city and went to Ellen's Stardust Diner - a place where aspiring Broadway actors/actresses wait tables and sing while they do! Tessa had a milk shake and I enjoyed a glass of wine.
Back to the room by around and played cards and giggled and were finally sleeping by 1:00 am :-).
This morning it was another mass transit day - cab to Penn station - figuring out how to get to Newark to pick up our rental car (I did not want to drive in the city and the drop rate was around 150.00 LESS to pick up in Newark then in Manhattan as we are returning the car in Philly on Monday)...
It was a long morning of trains and lugging bags but we were in our rental car by around 1:00 pm ... and on the 78 west heading to Theresa's house.
We went to her store and grabbed a bit - it feels great being here.
We were in New York in August and Tessa did NOT care for it..she had a much different experience this time around :-).
A few notes:
The hotel was good - remember we were there on points - I think I might not have been happy if I was paying rack rate. I did like the location - it was great for being there for shows. It was OUT of Time Square (I have stayed at the Marriott RIGHT in TimeSquare and it is overload for me - I prefer uptown to Timesquare area but for those seeing shows it is a good location). Note: If you DO stay there please ask for a high floor. We were on the 3rd floor and at times I heard the subway in the middle of the night running under us. Higher up it should not have been an issue.
We are here till Sunday when we head over to Lancaster/Amish Country.
Hope all is well at home!
Love,
Dawn & Tessa
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
We are here!
100 degrees in California one day and wake up the next day with busy streets, a LOT of people and a cool 55 degrees! Nice.
We had a smooth flight - no traffic getting to LAX - check in smooth as we did not check bags - no line in security. Waited in the Delta Crown Room in LAX - was okay. Nothing to write home to Mom about. Tessa commented that the "club" in Santiago Chile was "much" nicer...pondering exactly how much daughter has indeed traveled at that moment.
We were in First Class - so it was smooth sailing. It was a business class configuration. I will add that if I had been traveling on a transatlantic flight I might have been irked with the seats. They were not new and did not recline much etc. Having said that - it was NOT a transatlantic flight so Tessa and I were quite pleased. :-)
We watched movies the entire way - and a little of the debate.
Our car service picked us up at JFK and wisked us to the City. That my friends is always an interesting experience. The car for those interested is 5.00 more then a cab. Cab fare is regulated in NYC from the airports into Manhattan and is 45.00 - we paid 50.00.
Hotel is good. Very friendly staff(who said NYC people are not friendly???) We are at the Hilton Garden Inn on points. Three nights free - which is great because Oct is a very expensive month in the city (when isn't???) Average rooms were around 400.00 a night.
There is free starbucks coffee in the lobby, free internt and a 24 "store".
Today we are seeing Legally Blonde at 2:00 and then have dinner reservations at Tavern on the Green. I have heard nothing but poor reviews on Tavern but thought it would be special to "go" there once...the twinkling lights and carriage ride pulled me in.
I will let you know!
Happy Travels and lots of love!
Dawn & Tessa
We had a smooth flight - no traffic getting to LAX - check in smooth as we did not check bags - no line in security. Waited in the Delta Crown Room in LAX - was okay. Nothing to write home to Mom about. Tessa commented that the "club" in Santiago Chile was "much" nicer...pondering exactly how much daughter has indeed traveled at that moment.
We were in First Class - so it was smooth sailing. It was a business class configuration. I will add that if I had been traveling on a transatlantic flight I might have been irked with the seats. They were not new and did not recline much etc. Having said that - it was NOT a transatlantic flight so Tessa and I were quite pleased. :-)
We watched movies the entire way - and a little of the debate.
Our car service picked us up at JFK and wisked us to the City. That my friends is always an interesting experience. The car for those interested is 5.00 more then a cab. Cab fare is regulated in NYC from the airports into Manhattan and is 45.00 - we paid 50.00.
Hotel is good. Very friendly staff(who said NYC people are not friendly???) We are at the Hilton Garden Inn on points. Three nights free - which is great because Oct is a very expensive month in the city (when isn't???) Average rooms were around 400.00 a night.
There is free starbucks coffee in the lobby, free internt and a 24 "store".
Today we are seeing Legally Blonde at 2:00 and then have dinner reservations at Tavern on the Green. I have heard nothing but poor reviews on Tavern but thought it would be special to "go" there once...the twinkling lights and carriage ride pulled me in.
I will let you know!
Happy Travels and lots of love!
Dawn & Tessa
Monday, October 6, 2008
Getting stressed!!!
Okay.. I have shared and many know - for someone who loves to travel and if I am not planning a trip, on a trip, or thinking about trip it is like the Jordan Sparks song Tessa loves so much...
"Tell me how I'm supposed to breathe with no airCan't live, can't breathe with no air" ...
Just ask Frank... I make him slightly insane with my trips! BUT (there is almost always a but) I am actually a very nervous/anxious traveler. About two years ago a friend recommended I take Xanax to fly so that has helped a lot. Having said that - I am going sans drugs on this trip as flying solo with Tessa and do not want to take drugs. We shall see.
The trip preparation has been less then what I would normally do. I was planning a very long extensive very expensive trip to Europe with Tessa and it was canceled about 5 weeks or so ago due to finances, my anxiety, finances..oh and did I mention my anxiety? LOL
We ARE going to Paris at Christmas before you even start to feel an once of pity for me ;0)
Most of our current trip is being "paid" for with hotel reward points and miles.
We are staying at the Hilton Garden Inn in TimeSquare on Hilton points, opppsss, I forgot, flying on Delta miles, Marriott in Philly is on points, Westin in DC is on points/cash (60.00 a night), None of these hotels would be my "first" choice.
In NYC I do not care for staying in Time Square, I find it to be crowded, loud, garnish, and over-load on my senses... but with the cost of hotels in the city currently - well, I will take it!
I wanted to stay by Rittenhouse Square in Philly - as it is gets high rates and seems to be the best location.
In DC - I was unsure but at 60.00 a night I am not going to turn it away.
I do check out trip advisor prior to booking any hotels as well as travel message boards such as Fodors for personal feedback.
I use Fordor travel guides always - and have yet to be let down.
For Europe I like Rick Steves but find he is slightly below my level of comfort. No offense meant Rick ;-).
In Orange County I must give a shout out to Shooting Star Limo service. Frank and I have been using them since he was with Onyx - and their service is amazing and Jan has never let us down. 714-484-7115. They are picking Tessa and I up tomorrow. We have to fly out of LAX but the plus is I used miles to upgrade us to first class - which on this flight is actually a businses class level. So..the extra time at LAX will be worth it if all goes as planned!
We are planning on doing carry on only for this trip. Mainly because I have to be able to handle our bags without my big strong man around ;-). When we went to Europe we really were over packed and heavy laden! I recently purchased two new suitcases off of Overstock.com upon the suggestion of a travel board. Heys Xcase 20-inch Carry-on - they were a good price on Overstock and I got one for both Tessa and I. They weigh less then 5 pounds each unpacked. The ones I currently owned were almost 12 pounds unpacked. Big difference.
"Tell me how I'm supposed to breathe with no airCan't live, can't breathe with no air" ...
Just ask Frank... I make him slightly insane with my trips! BUT (there is almost always a but) I am actually a very nervous/anxious traveler. About two years ago a friend recommended I take Xanax to fly so that has helped a lot. Having said that - I am going sans drugs on this trip as flying solo with Tessa and do not want to take drugs. We shall see.
The trip preparation has been less then what I would normally do. I was planning a very long extensive very expensive trip to Europe with Tessa and it was canceled about 5 weeks or so ago due to finances, my anxiety, finances..oh and did I mention my anxiety? LOL
We ARE going to Paris at Christmas before you even start to feel an once of pity for me ;0)
Most of our current trip is being "paid" for with hotel reward points and miles.
We are staying at the Hilton Garden Inn in TimeSquare on Hilton points, opppsss, I forgot, flying on Delta miles, Marriott in Philly is on points, Westin in DC is on points/cash (60.00 a night), None of these hotels would be my "first" choice.
In NYC I do not care for staying in Time Square, I find it to be crowded, loud, garnish, and over-load on my senses... but with the cost of hotels in the city currently - well, I will take it!
I wanted to stay by Rittenhouse Square in Philly - as it is gets high rates and seems to be the best location.
In DC - I was unsure but at 60.00 a night I am not going to turn it away.
I do check out trip advisor prior to booking any hotels as well as travel message boards such as Fodors for personal feedback.
I use Fordor travel guides always - and have yet to be let down.
For Europe I like Rick Steves but find he is slightly below my level of comfort. No offense meant Rick ;-).
In Orange County I must give a shout out to Shooting Star Limo service. Frank and I have been using them since he was with Onyx - and their service is amazing and Jan has never let us down. 714-484-7115. They are picking Tessa and I up tomorrow. We have to fly out of LAX but the plus is I used miles to upgrade us to first class - which on this flight is actually a businses class level. So..the extra time at LAX will be worth it if all goes as planned!
We are planning on doing carry on only for this trip. Mainly because I have to be able to handle our bags without my big strong man around ;-). When we went to Europe we really were over packed and heavy laden! I recently purchased two new suitcases off of Overstock.com upon the suggestion of a travel board. Heys Xcase 20-inch Carry-on - they were a good price on Overstock and I got one for both Tessa and I. They weigh less then 5 pounds each unpacked. The ones I currently owned were almost 12 pounds unpacked. Big difference.
Okay... back to the stress... too much to do today and frankly not enough time...
So that is it for now,
~ DawnSunday, October 5, 2008
Sunday... two days before we leave
Well - we are getting ready to leave on Tuesday for our two week trip back east.
We are basically packed and attempting to do carry on only. We are moving so much during the two weeks that I need for Tessa to be able to handle her own stuff as much as possible. With my back not in great condition it is also necessary to keep it light.
Here is our plan so far:
Oct 7 Depart LAX - arrive JFK late transportion through Carmines car service to Hilton Garden Inn Time Square
Oct 8 - Legally Blonde 2:00 pm dinner reservations at Tavern on the Green. Want to take a carriage ride to get there in Central Park
Oct 9 - day open - Going to Staten Island to see Aunt Katie and family 5:00 pm dinner reservations at Cafe de Artist 7:00 pm HairSpray
Oct 10 - Leave New York take train to Newark and rent car - drive to Theresa's house
Oct 11 Theresa's house
Oct 12 - head toward to Lancaster - spend day/night in Lancaster
Oct 13 - morning in Lancaster drive to Intercourse and over to Philly check into Marriott and drop off rental car rest of day open - have tea reservations at the Four Seasons
Oct 14 - Independence Hall 10:00 am reservations - 5:00 pm dinner with friends in Philly
Oct 15 - train from Philly to Williamsburg (long train ride)Williamsburg Inn - Ghosts tour that night
Oct 16 day in Williamsburg - train to Richmond - Janet picking me up at train station
Oct 17 - spend day in Richmond with Janet
Oct 18 early train to DC - Washington monument at 2:30 pm
Oct 19 - holocaust museum
Oct 20 - Libary of Congress Tour - - arranged through our wonderful Congress person's office - 8:30 am
Oct 21 - White House Tour! Again arranged through our Congress person. Personal Capital Tour to follow - And a tour of the Kennedy Center - - A busy day on Tuesday!
Oct - 22 head home to Orange County!!!
We are basically packed and attempting to do carry on only. We are moving so much during the two weeks that I need for Tessa to be able to handle her own stuff as much as possible. With my back not in great condition it is also necessary to keep it light.
Here is our plan so far:
Oct 7 Depart LAX - arrive JFK late transportion through Carmines car service to Hilton Garden Inn Time Square
Oct 8 - Legally Blonde 2:00 pm dinner reservations at Tavern on the Green. Want to take a carriage ride to get there in Central Park
Oct 9 - day open - Going to Staten Island to see Aunt Katie and family 5:00 pm dinner reservations at Cafe de Artist 7:00 pm HairSpray
Oct 10 - Leave New York take train to Newark and rent car - drive to Theresa's house
Oct 11 Theresa's house
Oct 12 - head toward to Lancaster - spend day/night in Lancaster
Oct 13 - morning in Lancaster drive to Intercourse and over to Philly check into Marriott and drop off rental car rest of day open - have tea reservations at the Four Seasons
Oct 14 - Independence Hall 10:00 am reservations - 5:00 pm dinner with friends in Philly
Oct 15 - train from Philly to Williamsburg (long train ride)Williamsburg Inn - Ghosts tour that night
Oct 16 day in Williamsburg - train to Richmond - Janet picking me up at train station
Oct 17 - spend day in Richmond with Janet
Oct 18 early train to DC - Washington monument at 2:30 pm
Oct 19 - holocaust museum
Oct 20 - Libary of Congress Tour - - arranged through our wonderful Congress person's office - 8:30 am
Oct 21 - White House Tour! Again arranged through our Congress person. Personal Capital Tour to follow - And a tour of the Kennedy Center - - A busy day on Tuesday!
Oct - 22 head home to Orange County!!!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)