Paris + I

We have a love/hate relationship, Paris and I.  After several unsucessful visits...rude sales people (outright refusal to serve us), folks peeing on the metro, angry/drunk homeless people, nearly getting mugged, etc...I had developed a firm dislike for this city. But after working with and becoming friends with several "Parisiennes", they had started to wear me down.  When my mom and sister were able to come to Paris for my second week here, I decided I would give Paris a second chance. 

I arrived yesterday as I have one week of training before my vacation.  The flight was late, the guy siting next to me on the plane went from friendly to creepy (creepy like in the movie "Taken") in about two seconds, the taxi driver didn't know where to go and everything is (of course) closed on Sundays particularly in La Defense where I am.  Fun. Still, I am resolved.  Paris gets a second chance.  I met up with two old friends yesterday evening and things improved.

Today was a good day - the training has better than expected with lots of interesting people from around the world and two more old friends (unexpected surprise!) in the class.  I have mastered the use of "Bonjour", "Oui" and "Merci".  Tomorrow I might even test out a "Je voudrais"...

I know...I am very non-chalant about the fact I am here in Paris for a week of training.  Despite my outwardly tough exterior, don't worry - I am aware that I am incredibly fortunate (even though I am expected to work at night during the week of training....).  I am thankful that my company believes in training and that training should be done by the mothership. 

This is my hotel...very nice!



And this is part of my daily walk from the hotel to the training...

A+ for now!