Late Vendredi

So, here I sit. All packed. Bike, clothes, chocolates, souvenirs. Ric is putting the last minute touches on his packing. There are hundreds of feelings and things I experienced. I could not even begin to to enter it here. I cannot wait to tell the stories. You will be able to hear it all in my voice!!

But, strongly, I was feeling poorly about not tipping Christopher at Mellifere just up the street from the hotel from the other night - I wanted to show him how much I appreciated him. So I slipped out onto the street and up a few doors to the restaurant. “Bonsoir! Est Christopher cette?” "Oui." I went inside. I greeted him and he greeting me with much warmth, like a new friend. I said I wanted to thank him for the dinner and his assistance the other night for making our dinner fantastic. He said it was his pleasure and when he saw the Euro coins in my hand, he said put his hand on top of mine, closing my hand and said “No, that is not necessary. You are a friend!” My heart was filled instantly with such warmth and joy. I shook his hand firmly and warmly, putting my left hand on top. “Merci, Christoff.” I told him he was a great ambassador for Paris and I would tell everyone. He complimented me in return, saying I was a great ambassador for the United States of America. I was genuinely touched and deeply. The other staff stood nearby, all smiling, including the guy I talked to originally on the street when I walked up. What a wonderful way to close the day. Au revior, Paris et le Parisians! You have been everything we expected and dreamed these past months. Gracious, welcoming, impressive, warm, stunning, majestic, fun, delightful and enjoyable. My heart is filled to overwhelming.