Monday, April 21, 2008

Arc de Triumphe to Tuilleries



(Saturday, April 19th) Having Spencer accompany us to the Arc de Triumphe meant that we were permitted to ride a special elevator to the top. Spencer delighted in shimmying between the large screens explaining the history of the monument and once we were in the open air, pretending to look through the telescopes. A long walk down the Champs Elysees and a short nap later, he jumped at the opportunity to ride a mini-carrousel opting for a fire truck as his vehicle of choice. Spencer was frustrated to be strapped in the stroller instead of being allowed to rome free amongst the throng of people making their way to the Tuilleries. When we arrived, we toured the Musee de l'Orangerie for a view of Monet's splendid Nympheas. Even Spencer seemed impressed although more than anything he wanted to run around. A short stroll later brought us to the circular pond where children were sailing miniature wooden boats. Spencer watched with fascination. What a wonderful way to end the afternoon!

To top off our day, we dined at Bofinger, a neighborhood brasserie located across Place de la Bastille that dates from the 1860s. Spencer's menu d'enfant consisted of an "apertif" with an apple juice base, escalope of veal with mushrooms and mashed potatoes followed by a dessert of chocolate fondue for which Mommy composed an original song. Everyone enjoyed their traditional French meals.

No comments: